A Clash of Resilience and Tradition
As RCD Mallorca prepares to host Athletic Bilbao, the stage is set for a compelling encounter between two teams with contrasting recent fortunes. RCD Mallorca, sitting sixth in La Liga, has been in the spotlight not just for their on-field performances but also for their off-field endeavors. The unveiling of a plane named after the club underscores their growing brand presence. However, on the pitch, their form has been inconsistent, with recent losses to Real Betis and Villarreal. Despite these setbacks, Mallorca's home record remains respectable, with only one match this season where they failed to score at home.
Athletic Bilbao's European Aspirations
Athletic Bilbao, a club steeped in history, recently faced a setback in the Spanish Super Cup against Barcelona. Their European ambitions remain unfulfilled, but their domestic performances have shown resilience. Currently eighth in La Liga, Bilbao's away form has been a concern, with five matches this season where they failed to find the net. However, their historical edge over Mallorca, having not lost in their last five encounters, gives them a psychological advantage.
Head-to-Head Dynamics
The head-to-head statistics paint a picture of a closely contested rivalry. The most common result between these two sides is a 1-1 draw, a scoreline that has occurred nine times. Mallorca has not lost to Bilbao at home in their last five meetings, and their ability to score late in matches, with 40% of their goals coming in the final 15 minutes, could be pivotal. On the other hand, Bilbao's knack for scoring just before halftime, with 29% of their goals coming between the 31st and 45th minutes, adds another layer of intrigue.
Prediction and Final Thoughts
Given the current form and historical context, a draw seems the most likely outcome. Both teams have shown vulnerabilities, with Mallorca's mixed form and Bilbao's away struggles. However, the likelihood of both teams scoring is high, considering Mallorca's home scoring record and Bilbao's historical scoring advantage in this fixture. Expect a tightly contested match, with both sides eager to improve their standings in La Liga.
LaLiga
RCD Mallorcavs
Athletic Bilbao
LaLiga
Cuellar, Ivan
InjuredDoubtful
FC Barcelona
Real Madrid
Villarreal CF
Atletico Madrid
Espanyol Barcelona
Real Betis Seville
RC Celta de Vigo
Athletic Bilbao
Elche CF
Rayo Vallecano
Real Sociedad San Sebastian
Getafe CF
Girona FC
Sevilla FC
CA Osasuna
Deportivo Alaves
RCD Mallorca
Valencia CF
Levante UD
Real Oviedo
Premier League
Serie A
Bundesliga
Liga Profesional
Brasileiro Serie A