Ath Bilbao vs Girona Prediction & Betting Tips (23 September)

Last week, Athletic Bilbao found the scent of the sweet Champions League, ten years after its last participation. For the reception of Arsenal, despite 20 very good first minutes of play, the Basques finally ended up losing a 0-2 defeat. This defeat coincided with that contracted in the championship for the reception of the deportivo Alaves 0-1 a few days earlier. A setback which also put an end to the good dynamics of the men of Ernesto Valverde who remained on 3 successes in 3 days of Liga. Last weekend, the San Mames Lions moved to the lawn of Valencia to try to revive in the Result Championship to follow.

 Opposite, we are still waiting to see the true face of Girona who is currently in running and even in great difficulty. Before his confrontation with the promoted Levante in the weekend result to follow, the Catalan training had gleaned only a small point after four days of the championship. The draw took place on the lawn of Celta Vigo 1-1. Faced with Seville FC 0-2, Villarreal 5-0 and Vallecano during the 1st day 1-3 it was three defeats on the program. 

Tactically, this match could hinge on Bilbao’s ability to press high and exploit Girona’s lack of composure under pressure. Valverde’s side has shown a knack for controlling midfield through Ruiz de Galarreta and Jauregizar, while Girona’s 4-5-1 formation often leaves Vanat isolated. Expect Bilbao to dominate possession and create chances through wide overloads, especially with Yuri Berchiche pushing forward from left-back. Girona may rely on set pieces and counterattacks, but their defensive shape has been too porous to withstand sustained pressure.

Given the form and personnel, a 2-1 scoreline in favor of Athletic Bilbao feels both realistic and fitting. The home crowd at San Mamés will provide the usual cauldron of noise, and Bilbao’s recent scoring trends suggest they’ll find the net more than once. Girona might sneak a goal—perhaps through a moment of individual brilliance or a lapse in Bilbao’s backline—but the hosts should have enough to secure all three points. With Girona’s winless streak likely to continue, this fixture could mark a turning point for Bilbao’s push toward the top four.