Assessing Athletic Bilbao vs MU's winning chances: Don't trust the Red Devils
The match between Athletic Bilbao and MU in the Europa League semi-finals promises to be dramatic, as both teams are eager to win tickets to the final but the advantage is leaning towards San Mames stadium.
The first leg of the Europa League semi-final between Athletic Bilbao and Manchester United, taking place at 2:00 a.m. on May 2 (Vietnam time), is considered the most anticipated match of this round. Both teams possess many outstanding individuals, impressive performance in the continental arena and determination to win the championship, but enter this battle with very different conditions.
Manchester United: European experience and spirit
MU entered the Europa League semi-finals for the 18th time in history, with a thrilling journey in the quarter-finals when overcoming Lyon with a score of 7-6 on aggregate. Bruno Fernandes - who contributed to 29 goals in the Europa League knockout matches - continued to be a pillar in the midfield, in the context of the team missing many key players due to injury. Despite their unimpressive form in the Premier League, coach Ruben Amorim's team are still unbeaten in the European Cup this season with 28 goals - the most in the tournament.
However, the depleted squad is a major obstacle. The absence of Dalot, Martinez, Zirkzee, and many other key players has significantly weakened MU's strength. Meanwhile, the defense - despite its efforts - has not yet created peace of mind.
Athletic Bilbao: Home power and historical belief
On the other side of the front line, Athletic Bilbao are having a great season. They have won all six of their home games in the Europa League this season, scoring 14 goals and conceding just twice. Nico Williams – a bright young star – has contributed at least one goal in every game at San Mames, and together with his brother Inaki Williams, they form an extremely dangerous attacking duo.
In addition, coach Ernesto Valverde's team has a stable squad, good physical condition when having a weekend off and especially the home field advantage - where both the first leg and the final will take place if they advance.
In the past, Bilbao also had a better head-to-head record with three wins in four meetings with MU. The last time the two teams met in the 2011/12 season, Bilbao won both matches and qualified for the final.
Probability of winning
MU has experience and courage in the European arena, but they are facing a series of challenges: a tight schedule, a broken squad and unstable performance. Meanwhile, Athletic Bilbao has good form, home advantage and a nearly strongest squad.
The match promises to be tense and emotional, but considering the current situation, Bilbao has many grounds to win the first leg.
Expert prediction:
- Sportsmole: Athletic Bilbao 2-0 MU
- WhoScore: Athletic Bilbao 2-1 MU
- Nghe An Newspaper: Athletic Bilbao 2-1 MU
Probability of winning the first leg: Athletic Bilbao: 60% – MU: 40%
