Sevilla vs Athletic Club: La Liga Clash

Sevilla vs Athletic Club: La Liga Showdown

In the heart of La Liga's competitive season, Sevilla prepares to host Athletic Club in a match that promises tension and excitement. This clash, taking place on January 24, 2026, at the iconic Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, is not just another league fixture but a battle for survival and aspirations.

Match Preview

Sevilla, currently battling relegation, finds itself in a precarious position, occupying the 14th spot in the La Liga table, just two points above the relegation zone. Their season has been a struggle, with a record of six wins, three draws, and eleven losses from their 20 matches, accumulating 21 points. This marks their poorest performance in the top flight since 2001, highlighting the gravity of their current situation.

On the other side, Athletic Club, despite finishing fourth last season, has had a challenging campaign, currently sitting in the 10th position with 24 points. The Lions are eight points away from the European qualification spots and five points clear of the relegation zone. The demanding schedule, which includes commitments in the Champions League, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup, has taken a toll on their league form.

Both teams come into this match with mixed fortunes. Sevilla has only managed one point from their last four matches, with losses to Real Madrid, Levante, and Celta Vigo, followed by a draw against Elche. Their home record is equally concerning, with only 10 points from 10 matches, ranking them third worst in La Liga.

Athletic Club, however, has shown flashes of brilliance, notably their recent 3-2 victory over Atalanta in the Champions League. Despite the impressive win, their league form has been inconsistent, with only one win in their last six league fixtures. The upcoming Champions League match against Sporting Lisbon next week adds another layer of complexity to their preparations.

Team News and Lineups

Sevilla Injuries and Suspensions

Sevilla faces a significant challenge with several key players out. Tanguy Nianzou, Alfon Gonzalez, and Ruben Vargas are ruled out due to injuries. Additionally, Cesar Azpilicueta, Alexis Sanchez, and Adnan Januzaj are doubtful, facing late fitness tests. Batista Mendy and Marcao are also unavailable due to suspensions, leaving Matias Almeyda with a daunting task.

Despite the absences, Akor Adams, who returned from Nigeria duty, showcased his prowess by scoring twice in the 2-2 draw against Elche. The 25-year-old forward is expected to play a pivotal role in this match.

Athletic Bilbao Injuries and Suspensions

Athletic Club, too, is dealing with a list of injuries and suspensions. Inaki Williams, Maroan Sannadi, Benat Prados, and Unai Egiluz are out, while Aymeric Laporte is a major doubt. Gorka Guruzeta and Inigo Lekue are suspended, adding to Ernesto Valverde's selection headaches.

Robert Navarro, who was outstanding in the win over Atalanta, scoring once and providing two assists, is set to continue in the final third. His creative abilities could be a key factor in this match.

Possible Lineups

Sevilla possible starting lineup: Vlachodimos; Carmona, Gudelj, Salas; Sanchez, Agoume, Sow, Suazo; Oso, Adams, Fernandez

Athletic Bilbao possible starting lineup: Simon; Areso, Paredes, Vivian, Berchiche; Ruiz de Galarreta, Jauregizar; Navarro, Sancet, N Williams; Berenguer

Expert Prediction

Given the circumstances, both teams are in challenging positions. Sevilla's defensive vulnerabilities and Athletic's inconsistent form suggest that this match could be a closely contested affair. With several key players missing from both sides, the likelihood of a draw seems plausible.

Our prediction: Sevilla 2-2 Athletic Bilbao. Both teams have a number of important players missing for this match, and it would be fair to say that neither is in the best form. Athletic will have one eye on their Champions League game with Sporting next week, so we are expecting Sevilla to be good enough for at least a draw.

Conclusion

The upcoming match between Sevilla and Athletic Club is set to be a thrilling encounter, marked by the stakes of La Liga survival and European aspirations. With both teams dealing with injuries and suspensions, the outcome remains uncertain. Football fans worldwide will be keenly watching as these two sides battle it out at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.