Athletic Bilbao vs Real Zaragoza Match Preview

 

Fernando Llorente has just been through a wonderful week with Spain's National Football Team and will be eager to prolong his winning streak against Zaragoza at San Mames. Jose Aurelio Gay's boys are sharing the last position with Deportivo and they depend only on themselves to escape from the basement and secure their continuity in Spain's top football category.

Joaquin Caparros' Lions started the season in the best possible manner, but two consecutive defeats have undermined their promising path, standing at the 11th position with seven points. Zaragoza's last three visits to San Mames have granted the Maños one important point.

"This is an excellent opportunity to make up for the lost time" stated Athletic's midfielder Javi Martinez. But it might not be such an easy task considering Zaragoza won't hesitate on defying the Lions "You cannot go to San Mames and wish for a goalless draw. Fernando Llorente can score at any moment and obtaining an early advantage will be our priority" said Zaragoza's Ander Herrera.

Jiri Jarosik's absence will compromise Zaragoza's defense against one of the most experienced strikers of the league. Ivan Obradovic is likely to make some room for Leo Ponzio, as the performance of the Serbian international has been far from satisfying so far.

Javi Martinez's return will boost Athletic's offense, joining Gaizka Toquero and Llorente on the attack. Athletic's form will be tested against one of the weakest rivals of the category, will they be upto the circumstances and claim the three points?

Under-1.95
Over-1.85