Athletic Club vs Atlético de Madrid, Prediction, Odds and Betting Tips 29/02/2024
Calendar icon Updated 05 Apr 08:57

Athletic Club vs Atlético de Madrid, Prediction, Odds and Betting Tips 29/02/2024

Kai Edvard Iliev Kai Edvard Iliev

Odds via Tonybet

Athletic Club vs Atlético de MadridFebruary 29, 2024, 3:30 PM ET
Athletic Club odds+142
Atlético de Madrid odds+129
Draw+300
Over\Under2.5 +123\-145

Athletic Club vs Atlético de Madrid. Shape of the Teams

We’re slowly approaching the end of the Copa Del Rey, a tournament that never disappoints. This was showcased again yesterday in the other tie between Real Sociedad and Real Mallorca, ending in the visitors’ victory. 

Nobody expected Aguirre’s Real Mallorca to win against Real Sociedad on their home turf in San Sebastian. However, in the nerve-wracking penalty shootout, Sergi Darder coolly converted the decisive kick.

Many were hyped for a possible Basque Derby in the Copa Del Rey final, but instead, Mallorca reached the final for the first time in twenty-one years.

To a similar extent, Athletic Club vs Atlético de Madrid is a difficult fixture. San Mamés is known for its electrifying atmosphere and passionate supporters, standing as a fortress for Athletic Club.

Additionally, Ernesto Valverde’s team had already reminded Atlético of the Basque power in the first leg in Madrid (0-1 victory for Athletic). Reaching the final has now become a daunting task for Atlético de Madrid. But not all is doom and gloom: Real Betis abruptly ended Athletic Club’s unbeaten steak in the last round of La Liga (3-1).

The injuries also play in the hands of the Basques – Antoine Griezmann and Alvaro Morata are sidelined due to injuries – two of the pivotal leaders of Atlético’s attack.

Athletic Club vs Atlético de Madrid Match Info

Athletic Club vs Atlético de Madrid Prediction, Odds

Despite their defeat against Real Betis, I would be surprised to see Athletic Club, with the home crowd’s support, not go through against Atlético de Madrid on Thursday. 

Antoine Griezmann’s absence cannot be understated. He’s the orchestrator of the attack, and his absence leaves a significant void. 

As his replacement, Diego Simeone is expected to field Memphis Depay and Angel Correa on the forward line. For context, Memphis has been inconsistent and often struggling with injuries, while reports have suggested that Correa was looking for an exit due to a perceived lack of playing time.

With these two leading the team, things look unpredictable, potentially causing instability in Atlético’s offensive line.

Molina and Lino are expected to start on the wings. This probably means Athletic Club will storm the space behind Lino, who defensively still does not cut it (which is normal, given his limited experience). 

There are not many injuries on the side of Athletic Club – and Daniel Vivian has been as imposing as few have been – making him one of the best defenders of the season. 

With the potential tactical setup featuring Athletic Club’s four forwards against Atlético’s three defenders, it’s apparent that Atlético’s defence could be overwhelmed. 

This situation is further complicated by the fact that Reinildo is the only major defensive performer besides Witsel. However, their efforts to advance and cover gaps between defensive lines could leave Atlético vulnerable to counter-attacks, as they can’t consistently push forward without risking exposure.

Athletic Club vs Atlético de Madrid Betting Tip

It’s easy to see Athletic Club keep a clean sheet – and it is not because of the injuries plaguing Atlético. It’s because of the absurd level of performance this team has consistently demonstrated throughout the season. 

For a team that traditionally leans heavily on its academy products rather than splurging in the transfer market, their position within the top five of La Liga is nothing short of astonishing. With their high ranking in the league, they’re doing much better than their Basque counterparts. 

Athletic Club have the confidence that allows them to believe in their counter-attacking methods while always suffocating the opponent through pressure – a hallmark of Ernesto Valverde’s tenure. 

It’s hard to see any possible ways for Atlético de Madrid to survive this and the passionate home crowd at San Mamés will only amplify this challenge. 

I would not even wish for my worst enemy to be behind one goal and be forced to win at San Mamés, especially not during a midweek game. Athletic Club is the clear favourite for this encounter- unlike many would assume based on paper assessments alone. 

Disclaimer: Odds are accurate at the time of posting and subject to change. Please verify the latest odds on our platform before betting.

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