Athletic Bilbao vs Racing Santander

January 15, 2011
By: Nemanja Lazarevic

Athletic Bilbao aim to return to winning ways after failing to win any of their last four games, although los Leones enter the Racing game full of confidence after twice holding arguably the best team in the world in Copa Del Rey. Racing recorded three straight draws in La Liga and I’m sure they wouldn’t mind picking up another point from the travels.

Barca found out what San Mames is all about

When one takes into account the fact that Athletic Bilbao only rely on Basque players, they simply have to congratulate this side on all their achievements over the last few years. Los Leones have finally established themselves as a stable La Liga side after constantly being involved in the relegation struggle, and their performances this season have been nothing short of impressive. Joaquin Caparros’ side proved their credentials by drawing both games against Barcelona in Copa Del Rey, with the home defeat to Deportivo only a consequence of their preoccupation with the Catalans. After the away draw with Malaga, Athletic look ready to return to winning ways, as San Mames crowd awaits another convincing performance from los Leones.

With Mikel San Jose suspended for this tie, young Borja Ekiza is set to partner Aitor Ocio in the heart of defence, whereas wonderkid Iker Muniain starts on the left wing. Fernando Llorente and Gaizka Toquero will resume their attacking partnership.

The worst scoring record in La Liga

Racing Santander sit well clear of the bottom three despite scoring just 14 goals in 18 games, which is the worst record in La Liga. Nonetheless, Miguel Angel Portugal’s side have made almost every goal they scored worthwhile, even if most of the points were won at their El Sardinero. On the other hand, Racing largely struggle on the travels and they have only recently picked up few away points after losing five of their first six away games. That record doesn’t give them much reason for optimism before the trip to arguably the hottest ground in La Liga, so you will forgive me for thinking Racing have nothing to hope for at San Mames.

Gonzalo Colsa and Pablo Pinillos return to the side after missing the Sporting Gijon game, while Kennedy Bakirciouglu should be fit to play after shaking off a minor injury.

Verdict

Athletic Bilbao are a real force to be reckoned with at their San Mames and after playing two great games against Barcelona, the Basques should be able to beat poor Racing. The Santander outfit has gone eight years without winning at the Cathedral and everything suggests they will leave Bilbao empty handed once again.

Our prediction: Home win

Odds: 1.70 (7/10)

Bookmaker: Sports Interaction

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