Athletic vs Espanyol: prediction for the La Liga fixture
On September 4, the Lions will host the Budgerigars for the La Liga clash. Will visitors be able to withstand? The answer is in our prediction.

Command Analysis

Athletic Bilbao

In the previous season Athletic underperformed in Copa del Rey and in Spanish Super Cup. In the semi-final of a Spanish Cup Basques were defeated by Valencia, but got their revenge in the new season.
After the 8th place finish in La Liga the Red-Whites started the new campaign with a draw and two victories. Aside from Valencia, team also beat Cadiz (4:0). Now team is at the 5th place with seven points to their name. Bilbao didn't concede a single goal so far. Aguirrezabala, Williams, Berchiche, Balenziaga and Martinez will miss the upcoming match.

Espanyol

In the previous season Espanyol managed to retain the La Liga spot. In 38 rounds team recorded 10 victories and 12 draws, delivering 42 points and a 14th spot in the standings. Team also failed to succeed in Copa del Rey, the White-Blues were eliminated in the second round.
The Budgerigars started the new La Liga season with a draw against Celta (2:2). After that, Catalan side suffered two defeats and dropped to 16th spot. Lecomte, Gomez, Pedrosa, de Tomas and Lozano will miss the upcoming game.
Trends
СтавкаGoals in both halves - yes
In three latest head-to-head matches goals were scored in both halves

СтавкаCorrect score 1:1
This bet played in 3 of 5 latest head-to-head matches

СтавкаCorners: total under 9,5
This bet played in 2 of 4 latest head-to-head matches

Tip and bets
Hosts surely have an advantage in this match, they have an experienced squad and they are always strong at San Mames, it will surely be a key factor. Espanyol will have a chance to surprise - Catalan side has a number of skilled players. We are expecting a close contest, but visitors have a chance to beat the opponent.
Our prediction - Asian handicap (+1) for Espanyol
We think that the game will be decided by a one-single mistake - both teams have problems with creating chances, plus in 3 of 5 latest head-to-head matches no more than two goals were scored.
Our second bet is on total under 2,5 goals