Barcelona vs Athletic: prediction for the La Liga fixture

Barcelona got off to an unsuccessful start in the Champions League, team finished the group stage only at the 3rd spot, beating only Dynamo Kyiv. 

At the first round of Europa League playoffs Catalan side faced Napoli, who eventually suffered a defeat (3:5 on aggregate). 

Xavi's men got off to a great start in Copa del Rey, but in the second round hosts were defeated by their today opponent, which should add extra motivation. After 24 rounds of La Liga The Blaugrana have 11 victories and nine draws, delivering 42 points and a 4th spot in the standings. 

After a success in the match against Atletico (4:2) hosts drew to Espanyol (2:2) and beat Valencia (4:1). 

Wague, Garcia, Depay, Lenglet, Aubameyang, Roberto, Umtiti and Fati won't feature in the upcoming match. 

Athletic lost the Super Cup title on January, losing it to Real in the final match. Team is looking great in Copa del Rey though and reached the semi-final already - team drew to Valencia (1:1) in the first leg. 

After 25 rounds of La Liga Basques have nine victories and seven draws, delivering 37 points and an 8th spot in the standings. 

After a defeat to Mallorca (2:3) Bilbao have recorded an away victory over Real Sociedad (4:0). Lions' offensive line is not looking convincing, only 29 goals were scored.

Capa and Williams won't feature in the upcoming match.