Real Madrid will be searching for their fourth successive league win and an opportunity to close the gap behind their title rivals when they host Athletic Bilbao at Santiago Bernabeu. Meanwhile, los Leones go into the game in very low spirits, albeit hoping to end a six-match winless run in all competitions.

Real back to their best

Real Madrid went through a very difficult patch after defeating Sevilla in the opening game of the season to lift the UEFA Super Cup trophy, losing the Spanish Super Cup clash to Atletico Madrid, while also suffering league defeats to los Colchoneros and Real Sociedad. However, los Blancos have since rediscovered their form and have been pretty impressive of late. Carlo Ancelotti’s side are currently on a five-match winning streak and having scored 22 goals in the process, they have every reason to feel optimistic ahead of the clash with out-of-form Athletic Bilbao. Real Madrid did experience some problems in the Champions League clash against Ludogorets, but they eventually came from a goal behind to record a 2-1 triumph and they look a good bet to see off los Leones as well. Cristiano Ronaldo appears to be doubtful for the weekend’s match, but even if he fails to recover in time, the hosts will have more than enough quality to defeat the Basques, although they could face some problems at the back with Athletic likely to deploy their trademark high-pressing style.

Cristiano Ronaldo has done some light training after suffering a heel injury, but Sami Khedira and Jese Rodriguez are out injured.

What is happening to Athletic?

Despite starting the season in bright manner, pipping very good Napoli side to a place in the Champions League group stages, Athletic have suffered a major dip in form since and they cannot seem to arrest the latest disappointing run. Some would say that the lack of strength of depth combined with the busy schedule is the main reason for some under-par performances, but it is still too early in the season for the players to feel tired. The reality is the players are out of confidence following some unexpected results and they desperately need one good result to turn things around. Even a promising performance against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu will be sufficient to improve the atmosphere ahead of the long international break, so I fully expect los Leones to fight for their lives when facing their more illustrious opponents. The problem is that key attackers Aritz Aduriz and Iker Muniain are both doubtful through injury, although they are likely to start given that they will have two weeks to rest properly afterwards.

Mikel Rico may not be risked as he is not at 100 per cent, whilst talented youngster Ager Aketxe is out with a broken toe.

Verdict

Real Madrid are hot favourites to win this match given the excellent form they are in at the moment, but I can see Athletic scoring at the Bernabeu, even if they are highly unlikely to avoid defeat. The visitors have enough attacking potential to hurt los Blancos and they will be very motivated to show some improvement in Madrid.

Top pick: Real Madrid/Real Madrid   1.70 (7/10) @ BetVictor

Alternative pick 1: Both teams to score   1.80 (4/5) @ bet365

Alternative pick 2: Home win & both teams to score   2.45 (29/20) @ William Hill