Athletic Bilbao vs Qarabag, UEFA Champions League 2025-26, Today Match Prediction

Athletic Bilbao vs Qarabag Match Prediction & Analysis

Heading into the third week of Champions League play, two surprise clubs have seemed to almost alternate places and play much differently than expected. As Qarabag FK is a newer side to this tournament, they have already pulled off two great victories, while Athletic Club is ranked amongst the bottom three. This is a matchup that has never really been played in the past. The match will take place on October 22 at 10:15 P.M. IST in San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao, Spain.

TEAMS PREVIEW

Athletic Bilbao Preview

With Athletic Club having a very tough start to this tournament, it has been difficult since they truly believed they finally had a strong side. To help fix these issues, Nico Williams will need to return quickly, though Gorka Guruzeta has already struck one goal so far. 

Knowing that Guruzeta was expected to break out, his early goal is huge for them moving forward as they hope he continues to build on this momentum. Iñaki Williams, with 7 progressive carries, has also been crucial by knowing how to build an attack, especially given that Oihan Sancet’s typical playing style at that position has been less effective.

A defensive unit that loves playing with five defenders, including Leonardo Paredes (4 interceptions) and Yuri Berchiche, has been very aggressive in stealing loose balls and creating key tackles, which in turn helps make Unai Simón one of the top keepers. 

Athletic Club Probable Starting Lineup - Unai Simon (GK), Oscar De Marcos (D), Leandro Parades (D), Yuri Berchiche (D), Adama Boiro (D), Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta (MD), Mikel Jaureguizar(MD), Inaki Williams (FW), Nico Williams(FW), Gorka Guruzeta (FW). 

Qarabag Preview

This has been one of the most revolutionary early performances for Qarabag, as they seem to be the new club that will shock everyone. Having already picked up two massive victories, their front line utilizes a very unique four-forward setup, which allows scoring opportunities to come from everywhere. 

Seeing that Emmanuel Addai (one goal and 3 passes received for a shot) has already been a successful piece, he continues to develop a great attack and remains one of the most improved players around the world. With Camilo Marques (one goal with one assist) slowly becoming a top-notch player as well, he is someone who can be massive as a dual threat since he has produced many progression passes. 

In addition to Musa Qurbanly, this side will also get support from their two key midfielders: Leonardo Andrade and Abdellah Zoubir. While Andrade (one goal and 4 progression passes) has always been vital with his pace and ability, the development of Zoubir has made the team's depth even better. At the back, Kevin Medina and Jony Montiel have been great defenders, supporting goalkeeper Matheus Kochalaski. 

Qarabag FK Probable Starting Lineup -  Matheus Kochalski (GK), Matheus Silva (D), Kevin Medina (D), Samy Mmaee (D), Joni Montiel (MD), Abdellah Zoubir (MD), Leonardo Andrade (MD), Patrick Andrade (MD), Emmanuel Addai (FW), Nariman Akhundzade (FW), Musa Qurbanly (FW), Camilo Marques (FW). 

ATHLETIC BILBAO vs QARABAG
Winning Prediction

As Athletic Club will be playing at home and hoping the crowd will be a factor, this Qarabag FK side has been tremendous under pressure. With all their key players continuing to attack the net well, they should end up edging this match out by a score of 2-1.

Qarabag FK to Win (2-1)

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