Aston Villa vs Athletic Bilbao Predictions

Aston Villa vs Athletic Bilbao predictions for this friendly match. Aston Villa aim for a morale-boosting win against Athletic Bilbao at Bescot Stadium on Wednesday, following an unsuccessful US trip. Read on for all our predictions and betting tips.

Club Friendlies | Aug 7, 2024 at 7.30pm UK Poundland Bescot Stadium

Aston Villa vs Athletic Bilbao Predictions

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Can Aston Villa Revive Their Pre-season Against Athletic Bilbao?

Aston Villa are set to face Athletic Bilbao at Bescot Stadium as they look to bounce back from a less-than-ideal pre-season tour in the United States. This friendly fixture offers both teams an opportunity to fine-tune their tactics and boost morale ahead of the 2024-25 season. For Villa, this match is crucial in their preparation for a return to the Champions League, a competition they have not participated in since 1983. Athletic Bilbao, fresh from a successful La Liga campaign and a Copa del Rey victory, will provide stern opposition.

Recent Form and Key Statistics

Aston Villa’s Pre-season Struggles

Aston Villa’s recent form has been disappointing, with three consecutive losses in their US tour. They suffered defeats to Columbus Crew, RB Leipzig, and Club America. Despite showing glimpses of promise, such as Leon Bailey and John McGinn hitting the post against Club America, Villa failed to secure a win. Their performances raised concerns among supporters, especially with the Premier League season fast approaching. Unai Emery has been active in the transfer market, integrating new signings like Amadou Onana and returning players such as Cameron Archer and Jaden Philogene into the squad.

Athletic Bilbao’s Mixed Bag

Athletic Bilbao’s pre-season has been somewhat inconsistent, with three wins and two losses. They rebounded well after a 3-0 defeat to Sporting CP, securing back-to-back victories, including a notable win over Osasuna to clinch the Basque Cup. Goals from Alvaro Djalo and Inaki Williams were pivotal in their recent success, showcasing the attacking threat they pose. Ernesto Valverde’s side will be looking to carry this momentum into their remaining friendlies and the upcoming La Liga season.

Expected Lineups and Tactical Analysis

Aston Villa’s Potential Starting XI

Gauci; Cash, Carlos, Torres, Maatsen; Onana, Barkley; Bailey, McGinn, Rogers; Archer

Unai Emery is likely to continue experimenting with his lineup, giving playing time to as many players as possible. The inclusion of Amadou Onana and Ian Maatsen in the starting XI indicates a focus on strengthening the midfield and defence. Villa’s attacking trio of Bailey, McGinn, and Rogers will aim to provide the creativity and goal threat, supported by Archer upfront.

Athletic Bilbao’s Expected Lineup

Padilla; De Marcos, Yeray, Paredes, Berchiche; Herrera, Prados; I. Williams, Sancet, Djalo; Guruzeta

With key players like Dani Vivian and Unai Simon unavailable, Valverde will rely on youngsters like Alex Padilla in goal. The midfield trio of Herrera, Prados, and Sancet will be crucial in controlling the game, while the attacking prowess of Inaki Williams and Djalo will test Villa’s defence.

Areas of the Field to Watch

The midfield battle will be a key area where this match could be decided. Villa’s Onana and Barkley will need to assert their dominance against Herrera and Prados. The duels between Bailey and Berchiche on the wing and between Archer and Yeray in the box will be critical. Athletic Bilbao’s strength in wide areas, with Williams and Djalo, will challenge Villa’s full-backs, particularly Cash and Maatsen.

Gameplay Expectations

Given the attacking talent on both sides, we can anticipate an open and high-tempo match. Villa will look to press high and exploit spaces behind Bilbao’s defence, while Bilbao will rely on quick transitions and the pace of their wingers. Both teams have shown vulnerability at the back in recent games, suggesting that goals are likely.

Predictions

Best Bet: Over 2.5 Goals

Given the attacking capabilities and defensive frailties of both sides, a high-scoring game seems likely. Aston Villa have averaged 2 goals per game in the Premier League, while Athletic Bilbao have been scoring at a rate of 1.6 goals per game in La Liga. Both teams have also been involved in matches with multiple goals recently, making this the best bet for the game.

Correct Score Prediction: Aston Villa 2-2 Athletic Bilbao

Both teams are expected to score, given their attacking strengths and defensive weaknesses. A 2-2 draw reflects the balance of attacking prowess and defensive lapses observed in their recent performances.

Goalscorer Prediction: Leon Bailey

Leon Bailey has been a consistent threat for Villa, and his ability to find space and create chances makes him a likely candidate to score. Given his form and role in the team, Bailey is expected to find the net in this match.

First Team to Score: Aston Villa

Villa, playing at home, will be eager to start strong and shake off their recent poor form. They are likely to push forward early and could be the first to score, leveraging the home advantage and the need to boost morale.

Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Target

Given Villa’s attacking style under Emery and Bilbao’s recent defensive lapses, a bet on the total number of shots on target by Aston Villa is intriguing. Villa have averaged 5 shots on target per game in the Premier League, and with the added motivation of playing at home, they are likely to test Bilbao’s young goalkeeper multiple times.

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