Get ready for a thrilling La Liga clash as Valencia welcome Athletic Bilbao to the Mestalla on 18 May 2025. Kick-off is set for 19:00 CEST across Italy, Germany, France and Spain, while fans in the UK can tune in at 18:00 BST. This fixture has often produced fast-paced, end-to-end action, and both sides will be eager to secure three points in the run-in.
With only a handful of matches remaining, every point matters for teams chasing European qualification or aiming to climb the table. Expect a lively atmosphere in Valencia as home supporters rally behind Los Che. Meanwhile, Athletic Bilbao will be keen to extend their unbeaten streak on the road and demonstrate their trademark resilience.
How are both teams coming into this?
Valencia have shown flashes of attacking flair in recent weeks, boasting an improved goal return at the Mestalla. Their home form has become more solid, with only one defeat in the last five league games. Defensively, they’ve tightened up but still need to guard against swift counter-attacks.
Athletic Bilbao, by contrast, have been rock-solid away from home. A series of tight affairs has underlined their defensive discipline, and they’ve picked up valuable points on the road. Their ability to grind out results without relying on a single star name speaks volumes about their collective strength.
Our forecast
We expect a competitive affair with both sides cancelling each other out in midfield. Given Valencia’s home edge and Athletic’s sturdiness, a draw looks like a sensible option. However, there’s also scope for a late winner as both teams push for decisive moments.
Our top pick is a 1-1 stalemate. If you’re looking for a riskier play, consider backing over 2.5 goals – recent meetings have often delivered three or more strikes. Either way, this one could go down to the wire.
Best odds
- Bet365: Valencia 2.40 – Draw 3.20 – Athletic Bilbao 2.80
- William Hill: Valencia 2.35 – Draw 3.25 – Athletic Bilbao 2.85
- Betfair: Valencia 2.38 – Draw 3.22 – Athletic Bilbao 2.78
