Athletic Bilbao vs CA Osasuna – 09/01/2023
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Athletic Club are on a two-game winning streak against Osasuna in La Liga ahead of Monday night’s match between the clubs at San Mames.
The Lions are in good form and head into matchday No 16 just two points outside of the Champions League qualification places. Athletic Club are fifth in the table with 25 points from 15 games.
Osasuna are ninth in the La Liga standings but just two points separate them from Athletic Bilbao. Los Rojillos go into the game in poor form, however.
Osasuna are on a two-game losing streak in the division following defeats to Barcelona and Real Sociedad. Los Rojillos only scored one goal in their last two games in La Liga.
Athletic Bilbao are unbeaten in back-to-back games. The Lions defeated Real Valladolid 3-0 and drew nil-nil with Real Betis. Athletic Bilbao are unbeaten in back-to-back games at San Mames versus Osasuna.
San Mames has been a fortress for Athletic Club this season. They took 16 points from eight games at home. Four of Athletic’s last five games at San Mames ended as wins in La Liga. Athletic Bilbao have outscored opponents at San Mames by a count of 12-4.
Osasuna have won just two of seven matches on the road this season. Two of their last six away games finished as wins. Osasuna have been outscored 8-5 on the road this season in seven matches. Los Rojillos’ most recent game on the road was a 2-0 loss to Real Sociedad.
Manager Jagoba Arrasate will be without defender Unai Garcia due to a red-card suspension. Defender Nacho Vidal is a major doubt following a muscle injury. Winger Kike Saverio is unlikely to make the team due to a lack of match fitness.
Athletic Bilbao Ernesto Valverde could be without the duo of Inigo Martinez and Ander Capa. Both players are suffering from physical discomfort and could miss the game.
Centre-forward duo Inaki Williams and Gorka Guruzeta have combined for 10 goals this season. Athletic Club are coming off a Copa del Rey 6-1 win over Eldense. Valverde rested his star players, but the team’s momentum should continue against Osasuna.
Athletic Bilbao are playing well in La Liga this season, especially at home. The Lions should pick up a win against Osasuna, their third straight victory over Los Rojillos. Athletic Bilbao should pick up a 2-0 win with Inaki Williams or Guruzeta picking up a goal.
