The upcoming fixture at Estadio de San Mamés features Athletic Club hosting Real Madrid. Athletic's recent form has been somewhat inconsistent, with a mixed record of wins, draws, and losses, while Madrid has impressively maintained a high win percentage and scored consistently. Tactical approaches will be key; Athletic is expected to rely on disciplined defending and swift counter-attacks, whereas Madrid's strategy will likely involve high pressing and possession-based buildup. The contrasting styles—defensive resilience against flair and attacking potency—will shape the dynamics of the game and could ultimately decide the winner.
Check out our complete thoughts below.
These are our top betting tips and predictions for the match.
Expect a disciplined start from both sides, with the possibility of a tight first half. Real Madrid's attacking talent might have an edge after halftime.
Considering recent performances, betting on Real Madrid with a slight handicap or predicting a draw could be a safe approach. Both teams have shown defensive resilience and attacking potency.
Under 2.5 goals is a prudent choice, reflecting solid defensive performances recently, especially from Real Madrid.
Both teams have had matches with goals from various players, but a bet on both teams to score could be risky, as they occasionally produce matches with one-sided results.
The match on December 3, 2025, is predicted to favor a win or draw for Real Madrid due to their recent form advantage and historical success against Athletic Club. Defensive organization and counter-attacking football could define the outcome.
Historically, Real Madrid has dominated recent fixtures against Athletic Club, with notable victories including a 2-1 away win in Bilbao and a 2-0 home win. Athletic's best recent result was a 2-2 draw at home, indicating competitive matchups.
Both teams have some key absences, potentially affecting tactical setups. Athletic Club might be missing some defensive key players, while Real Madrid could be cautious with squad rotation.
Expected formations are 4-2-3-1 for Athletic Club and 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 for Real Madrid, emphasizing defensive solidity and quick counter-attacks. Both teams typically press intensely from the front, with Madrid showing a slightly more aggressive pressing style.
Recent form indicates Athletic Club struggles with consistency, having mixed results in their last five games (40% wins), while Real Madrid displays a dominant form with 73% wins in recent fixtures, making Madrid a slight favorite for this encounter.
See below all the main information for this match.
This match between Athletic Club and Real Madrid is expected to be a closely contested fixture with Real Madrid slightly favored to win or draw based on recent form and head-to-head stats.
Given the recent form and historical results, a double chance bet on either a draw or a win for Real Madrid is advisable. The teams often produce competitive matches with varied results.
Top players to watch include Kylian Mbappé for Real Madrid and Nico Williams for Athletic Club. Their performances could be decisive in this fixture.
Injury reports suggest both teams have key players unavailable, but lineups typically feature strong defensive setups and creative midfielders to control the game.
