Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao come face-to-face in the Spanish Super Cup final after they both had to dig deep to see off to be in contention for the coveted trophy.
On the way to the final, Barcelona had to lean heavily on the world class ability of Ter Stegen to get past Real Sociedad via a penalty shootout.
Marcelino’s Athletic Bilbao also weathered the storm against holders Real Madrid to win 2-1 during the week.
Now, they come out again on Sunday and this time, the winner takes the cup home. Since it is the first silverware of the Spanish football season, Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao will give their all.
The Blaugrana have already beaten the Basque club this season with a 3-2 scoreline where Lionel Messi grabbed a brace after Williams had put them ahead earlier.
Barcelona are also currently on a nine-game unbeaten run in all competitions and appear to have the edge against Bilbao. However, Bilbao’s showing on Thursday proves they will not lie down and let their opponents roll over them.
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While Koeman’s confidence is increasing at Camp Nou, Marcelino has also proven himself and will be looking to please his new employers with a trophy as well.
It is also important to note that the last time that Athletic Bilbao won the Spanish Super Cup was at the expense of Barcelona.
Barcelona vs Athletic Bilbao team news
Argentine legend Lionel Messi will likely be fit enough for the match after sitting out Wednesday’s semi-final clash. Also, Sergino Dest will resume his right-wing-back duties as well. However, Gerard Pique, Philipe Coutinho, Sergi Roberto and Ansu Fati are still injured.
In Bilbao’s camp, Yuri Berchiche is still a doubt but the coach has hope that he can get some minutes out of him. While they have confirmed that Yeray Alvarez will return. Unai Lopez and Peru Nolaskoain are still unavailable.
Prediction
Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao clashes usually provide entertainment and many goals, especially when they meet in the Spanish Super Cup.
Raul Garcia and Williams will be looking to punish Barcelona’s sloppy defending early in the game. But, in the end, Barcelona usually gets the most time on the ball as Bilbao settles for ‘sneaky play’.
Verdict: Barcelona 3-2 Athletic Bilbao
A thrilling encounter surely
Barca will lose
Up Barca!