The 2-1 defeat in the first leg at San Mames puts Barcelona in a difficult position, although they remain the favourites to qualify for the quarter-final.

Athletic produced a valiant performance to win the first match despite ending the game with nine players, but they face another very difficult fixture.

This season has not been going according to the plan and they are already in danger of missing out on two major trophies.

And while Barcelona can still get their Copa del Rey title bid back on track, the ship appears to have sailed when it comes to the La Liga trophy.

Following the 1-1 draw with Villarreal at El Madrigal, the Catalans trail Real Madrid five points, while los Blancos also have a game in hand.

This means that it is their arch rivals who are now hot favourites to win this year’s La Liga, and maybe it’s time for Barcelona to focus on other competitions.

The Catalans have been made 1.17 (1/6) favourites to win the return leg against Athletic Bilbao, although that is not going to be an easy task.

There have been no fresh injury worries for coach Luis Enrique, while goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen has resumed full training.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): ter Stegen – Roberto, Pique, Masherano, Alba – Rakitic, Busquets, Iniesta – Messi, Suarez, Neymar.

Athletic Club were able to get some sort of revenge on Barcelona for recent defeats in the Copa del Rey finals, but the satisfaction will only be complete if they qualify for the next stage.

Los Leones largely impressed in the first leg, taking a two-goal lead before Leo Messi puled one back, while they somehow held on to the lead despite having Raul Garcia and Ander Iturraspe sent off in 74th and 80th minute respectively.

The duo is obviously suspended for the return match, with Benat and Mikel Rico expected to deputise at Camp Nou.

With first choice goalkeeper Kepa picking up a muscle injury, veteran Gorka Iraizoz is almost certain to continue his Copa del Rey run.

The difficult match with Barcelona clearly had a negative effect on Athletic players as they largely struggled in the goalless draw with Alaves, but we do expect them to put on a great fight at Camp Nou.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Iraizoz – Elustondo, Etxeita, Laporte, Balenziaga – Mikel Rico, Benat – Susaeta, Williams, Muniain – Aduriz.