Unravelling Real Madrid face stern Bilbao test in La Liga

Published: 18 April 2025, 1:40:20

Still nursing their wounds from a humiliating Champions League exit at the hands of Arsenal, Real Madrid must swiftly regroup as they host Athletic Bilbao in a crucial La Liga clash on Sunday. With the domestic title race heating up, the pressure is on Carlo Ancelotti’s side to respond and keep pace with leaders Barcelona.

The mood at the Santiago Bernabeu is expected to be tense, as fans prepare to vent their frustration following Madrid’s 5-1 aggregate loss to Arsenal. Despite high expectations of a comeback, the Spanish champions fell 2-1 on the night, leaving their European dreams in tatters.

Superstar Kylian Mbappe will miss the tie due to suspension and an ankle injury, offering Ancelotti the chance to revert to the system that proved effective last season. Vinicius Junior, despite netting Madrid’s only goal across the two legs against Arsenal, may face scrutiny after an underwhelming season.

Madrid remain four points adrift of Barcelona, who take on Celta Vigo on Saturday. The Catalan side, led by Hansi Flick, suffered their first defeat of 2025 in midweek but progressed to the Champions League semi-finals. They are expected to recall Pedri, whose absence was felt in the loss to Borussia Dortmund.

For Madrid, the return of Eduardo Camavinga from suspension could boost their midfield options, while Jude Bellingham may feature in a more advanced role.

Athletic Bilbao, riding high in fourth place, arrive full of confidence after defeating Rangers 2-0 on Thursday to reach the Europa League semi-finals. With dynamic winger Nico Williams in form, Ernesto Valverde’s men will look to exploit Madrid’s defensive vulnerabilities, particularly on the flanks.

Madrid have already lost 12 matches across all competitions this season, and another slip-up could prove costly in their pursuit of silverware. Ancelotti, whose future at the club is uncertain, emphasized the need to focus on the remaining competitions: La Liga, the Copa del Rey final, and the Club World Cup.

Fixtures to watch this weekend (all times GMT):
Friday:

• Espanyol v Getafe (1900)

Saturday:

• Rayo Vallecano (1200)

• Barcelona v Celta Vigo (1415)

• Mallorca v Leganes (1630)

• Las Palmas v Atletico Madrid (1900)

Sunday:

• Valladolid v Osasuna (1200)

• Villarreal v Real Sociedad (1415)

• Sevilla v Alaves (1630)

• Real Madrid v Athletic Bilbao (1900)