The clash between Sevilla and Athletic at the Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium sets the stage for both teams to assert their current trajectories: Sevilla aiming to climb towards European positions, and Athletic seeking to solidify their hold on the Champions League spots. Sevilla comes into this match with strong away performances, having recently secured a draw in Vallecas and a victory in San Sebastián. Now, they return home with the desire to enhance their home record. On the other hand, Athletic approaches the game looking to strengthen their fourth-place standing, riding high after a spectacular comeback against Roma in the Europa League to reach the quarter-finals.
The city of Seville is abuzz with anticipation as these two closely linked clubs, not just in colors but also in values, face off. In the previous round, both teams secured points, with Athletic grabbing just one and Sevilla claiming all three. The need for points is palpable for both sides as they seek to maintain their momentum. For Sevilla, this juncture in the season is crucial in their pursuit of European qualification. The fans' dreams of a return to European competitions motivate the players to deliver on the field. The specter of failing to secure back-to-back victories looms large, making a successful performance at home imperative. While coach Pimienta has expressed specific goals of reaching 40 points and securing a mid-table position, the desire to aim higher is inevitable. The players' determination and the fans' unwavering support will play pivotal roles in determining how lofty Sevilla's ambitions can soar.
On the Athletic side, despite their European success, Coach Valverde remains focused on their league campaign. Holding onto the fourth spot and securing a Champions League berth remains the primary objective. The team currently stands in good stead, even though their last win was three games ago. With two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five outings, clinching all three points would widen the gap with Villarreal, who recently lost to Real Madrid.
Their previous encounter in San Mamés ended in a narrow draw. Athletic took the lead in the 36th minute through Jauregizar, but a red card to Julen in the 80th minute shifted the momentum in Sevilla's favor, culminating in an equalizer via a Padilla own goal. In recent head-to-head matches, Athletic holds a significant advantage with two draws and three victories over Sevilla. The upcoming game promises to be competitive, with key absences and doubts on both sides affecting the lineup.
Sevilla faces absenteeism from Nianzou, with Akor Adams in doubt. Meanwhile, Athletic deals with the absence of Aitor Paredes, Vivian, and Sancet. The probable lineups feature Nyland, Carmona, Badé, Kike Salas, Pedrosa, Agoume, Sow, Vargas, Lukebakio, Juanlu, and Isaac Romero for Sevilla, and Simón, Gorosabel, Yeray, Lekue, Boiro, Galarreta, Jauregizar, Iñaki Williams, Berenguer, Nico Williams, and Guruzeta for Athletic. The match will be officiated by Juan Luis Pulido Santana at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán stadium.
As the teams gear up for this crucial showdown, both sets of supporters eagerly await a thrilling contest that could shape the ongoing battle for European spots. The match holds immense significance for Sevilla's aspirations and Athletic's ambitions, with each side aiming to make a statement on the field and continue their respective journeys towards their season objectives.