Real Madrid vs Athletic Bilbao Match Preview, Prediction and betting odds: 20/4/2025

A highly anticipated clash awaits on Sunday, April 20, 2025, as Real Madrid welcome Athletic Bilbao to the Santiago Bernabéu for Matchday 32 of La Liga. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 local time, with both teams chasing key objectives in the final stretch of the season. Real Madrid, sitting second with 63 points, are pushing to stay in the title race, while Athletic Bilbao, currently fourth on 54 points, are fighting to cement their place in next season’s European competitions.

With the stakes high and both sides in competitive form, this fixture promises intensity and quality. Our top betting tip leans toward a home win for Real Madrid, priced attractively at 1.80. Another strong betting option is both teams to score, given their offensive strengths.

Real Madrid Overview

Los Blancos have made their home ground a fortress this season, with 12 wins, 1 draw, and only 2 losses at the Bernabéu. This solid record underlines their dominance and consistency, particularly in front of their fans. Their 63 goals scored and just 31 conceded across the league highlight their balance in both attack and defense.

Their most recent league performance was a narrow 1-0 win away at Deportivo Alavés—further evidence of their ability to grind out results when necessary. Carlo Ancelotti’s experience has been pivotal, as he continues to rotate his squad effectively while maintaining high standards on all fronts.

So far this season, Real Madrid boast 19 wins, 6 draws, and 5 losses. Their goal-scoring firepower, tactical discipline, and the ability to handle pressure make them tough to beat, especially at home. With the title race heating up, they’ll be determined not to slip in this crucial fixture.

Athletic Bilbao Overview

Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic Bilbao have been one of the most consistent sides in La Liga this campaign. With 14 wins, 12 draws, and just 4 defeats, they’ve built a reputation for being difficult to break down. Their goal difference of +22, with 46 goals scored and 24 conceded, reflects a team that thrives on tactical organization and efficient finishing.

Away from home, they’ve held firm with 6 wins, 6 draws, and only 3 losses—an impressive return that should give them belief heading into the Bernabéu. Their latest fixture ended in a comfortable 3-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano, a result that further boosted confidence.

Valverde’s high-pressing style has been effective throughout the season. With his prior experience managing big games—including spells at Barcelona—he’ll likely have a strategic plan to neutralize Real Madrid’s threats and capitalize on transition opportunities.

Head-to-Head and Recent Form

In the last five matchups between these two teams, Real Madrid have come out on top three times, while Athletic have one win, and one match ended in a draw. However, the most recent encounter went Athletic’s way with a 2-1 home win. While Madrid hold the edge historically, that result serves as a reminder that the Basque side cannot be underestimated.

Looking at recent form, Real Madrid have 2 wins, 1 draw, and 2 defeats in their last five outings, while Athletic are unbeaten with 2 wins and 3 draws. The visitors may be in slightly better rhythm, but Madrid’s home advantage could prove decisive.

Prediction

The betting market favors Real Madrid, with 1win offering 1.80 for a home victory. Athletic Bilbao are priced at 4.73 to win, while a draw sits at 4.03. Given the context, a Real Madrid win paired with both teams scoring appears to be a value-laden selection.

Both sides have the firepower to make this an exciting contest, but Madrid’s pedigree at home, combined with Ancelotti’s tactical control, makes them the favorites to walk away with all three points.

Prediction: Real Madrid 3–1 Athletic Bilbao