Athletic Bilbao will host Slavia Prague at San Mames on Thursday for a crucial match in the Europa League main draw. Both teams will strive to maintain their unbeaten status in the group phase, having earned four points from their first two matches.
Athletic, which is participating in its inaugural European campaign since 2017-18, will be anxious to make a lasting impression, particularly in light of the Europa League final’s scheduled appearance at San Mames. The team has demonstrated potential in its European campaign thus far, earning four points from its initial two matches against AZ Alkmaar and Roma.
Athletic will enter Thursday’s match with high expectations of achieving their third consecutive home victory, following their impressive performance in their most recent match against Espanyol. They are a formidable opponent due to their exceptional home record, which includes four consecutive games without a loss.
On the other hand, Slavia Prague has been on a winning streak, maintaining an undefeated record in its Europa League campaign and currently leading Athletic in the standings. In all competitions, it has won eight of its last nine matches and secured four consecutive away victories, showing a strong momentum.
Despite Slavia’s recent performance, Athletic Bilbao is the clear favorite in this matchup. This is due to their excellent home record and ambition to make a significant impression in the Europa League.
With all these factors in mind, the anticipation is high, and Athletic Bilbao is expected to emerge victorious.