This is the second leg of the semi-finals, which is very important for both teams, and both opponents were unable to secure their places in the European competitions over the weekend – both clubs played a draw. Moreover, the overall victory in this game guarantees a place in the Europa League in the fall, as the second pair will meet the leaders and participants of the Champions League. Athletic doesn’t need additional motivation to overcome the one-goal deficit from the first leg and become the second club to reach 40 finals of the Copa del Rey (including 23 titles) in this tournament, which they practically made their own. Ernesto Valverde, whose only cup-winning title was with Barcelona in their double in the 2017/18 season, was optimistic about their chances but promised to “leave everything on the field”. It’s understandable if the boss felt a little uninspired after only winning one of his last seven competitions in such an important period of the year. Morsillo, Lekue, and Errera, who has a muscle injury, will not be able to take the field today.
Thanks for the context. Based on the first game’s result, “Osasuna” is already almost in the final, for the first time since their defeat to “Betis” in the 2004/05 season. Their persistent and determined march through this cup tournament, in which three out of four previous games were extended into extra time or even more, has given hope that they can revive their hopes of breaking into the top six at the end of the season. However, their victory in early March has been their last success so far, and their uncertain performances away from home give good chances for Bilbao. “Osasuna” conceded in their last three away games, even against lower-level opponents, and only won one out of six away matches. In this duel, Pena and Avila won’t be able to participate due to a foot injury. More pure soccer prediction can be obtained from the link provided.
