Athletic vs Barcelona. Prediction and Betting Tips for La Liga

Injuries and suspensions are not getting Athletic Bilbao's life easier ahead of the Barcelona clash in La Liga. Hosts need a victory in order to stay in the Top-6 race. Ernesto Valverde is ready for a battle against his former club, he is hoping to stop a four-game winless streak. 

San Mames can't be called a fortress, but Basque team managed to avoid defeats in three of four latest home matches against Catalan club. After 24 matches, hosts have nine victories and six draws, delivering 33 points and a 9th position in the standings. The Lions have a solid offensive record with 33 goals. 

Simon, Herrera, Morcillo, Sancet and Lecue will miss the upcoming game. 

While club's officials are dealing with El Caso Negreira, Barcelona players are enjoying a fantastic season on the field. After a victory over Valencia (1:0), club has 18 clean sheets after just 24 rounds, which is the best in any of Top-5 leagues in the current century. 

Blaugrana also won two latest La Liga fixtures against Athletic Bilbao with a total score of 4:0, which makes the Catalan club favourite in the upcoming encounter. Team suffered a humiliating defeat to Almeria (0:1) in the previous match, which will give visitors extra motivation. After 24 matches, club has 20 victories and two draws, delivering 62 points and a top position in the standings. Team also has the best defensive record in the league with just eight conceded goals. 

De Jong, Pedri, Dembele and Araujo will miss the upcoming game.