Ath Bilbao vs Qarabag Prediction & Betting Tips (22 October)

Back in the most prestigious club competition after a long absence, Athletic Club is currently struggling to get up to speed. Indeed, the Basques have certainly not been spared by the calendar but the first results are bad. Beaten at home by Arsenal to start 0-2, they then suffered the law of Borussia Dortmund during the 2nd day 4-1. A reaction is expected this week against a more affordable opponent. In the league, Bilbao got off to a very good start, winning their first three matches. On the other hand, Nico Williams' injury then did a lot of harm to Ernesto Valverde's men who went four games without a win, 1 draw and 3 defeats. They responded by dominating Mallorca just before the international break before traveling to Elche this coming last weekend. Athletic Club is now 8th in La Liga and 2 points behind 4th place.

Considered one of the weakest teams in the competition, Qarabag has defied all predictions so far. The Azerbaijanis first created a huge surprise by winning in the den of Benfica during the first day 2-3. Two weeks later, they confirmed their excellent start by taking over Copenhagen 2-0 at home. Dominant on the national scene, Qarabag has won eleven of the last twelve championships. The reigning four-time Azerbaijan champion now occupies 3rd place in the rankings with a record of 4 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss. After having lined up three victories in a row, Qarabag traveled to leader Turan this coming last weekend.

For this meeting, the Bilbao coach still cannot count on the important playmaker Sancet. We also find midfielders Vesga and Prados in the infirmary. Furthermore, replacement Egiluz was not included on the list to play this Champions League while experienced defender Yeray is suspended for doping. Finally, the participation of offensive executives Inaki Williams and Berenguer is not assured. Remaining at the club to compete in the C1 with his training club, Nico Williams was unable to play in the first two matches. He returned to the field just before the international break and should start this Wednesday. This is obviously a major asset for the Basques. In the cages, the wall Unai Simon takes place, who is protected by the strong defenders Vivian, Laporte and Paredes.

The last two are in the balance to start. Arriving at the club this summer from Rayo Vallecano, Spanish midfielder Montiel is on the floor and has not been included on the list. In addition, Qarabag must do without the important Montenegrin midfielder Jankovic, injured. Otherwise, it’s all hands on deck this week. We are thinking in particular of the offensive players Zoubir (1 goal in the league, 1 goal and 1 assist in C1), Leandro Andrade (1 goal in C1) and Duran (1 goal and 1 assist in C1) who have all scored since the start of this Champions League. The club's top scorer in the league with 3 goals, winger Baryamov was a substitute against Benfica and Copenhagen.