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Espanyol Eyes UCL Spot in 200th Bilbao Encounter
22 Dec
Summary
- Historic 200th meeting between Athletic Club and Espanyol.
- Espanyol aims for Champions League qualification with recent wins.
- Inaki Williams is available despite Ghana's AFCON absence.
The historic San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, Spain, is set to host the 200th LaLiga encounter between Athletic Club and Espanyol on Tuesday, December 23. Athletic Club, positioned eighth in the league, desperately needs a victory to bolster their chances for next season's continental competitions. They enter this match following a recent defeat.
Espanyol, currently sitting fifth in the standings, has emerged as a strong contender for a UEFA Champions League place, propelled by four consecutive victories. Their recent wins against Getafe and Sevilla underscore their impressive form. The team is managed by Manolo Gonzalez, who previously led Espanyol's reserve squad.
Notable players to watch include Athletic Club's homegrown defender Aitor Paredes, a Copa del Rey winner in 2024, and Espanyol's impressive loanee left-back Carlos Romero, who has contributed significantly with goals and assists. Despite absences due to the Africa Cup of Nations, Inaki Williams remains available for Athletic Club.
