Real Madrid vs Athletic Club: Preview, predictions and lineups

Real Madrid's final assault towards La Liga glory begins on Sunday night as they host Athletic Club in the Spanish capital.

A 4-2 win over Osasuna before the March international break saw Madrid extend their lead at the top of La Liga to eight points. Barcelona's uptick in form since Xavi revealed he'll be leaving at the end of the season means they're once again Los Blancos' closest challengers.

Sunday's bout is undoubtedly one of the toughest left on Madrid's schedule. They prevailed in the reverse fixture back in August and are the only team to win at San Mames this season.

Athletic Club have emerged as cup specialists in recent years but have enjoyed a stellar league campaign in 2023/24. Sitting fourth in the table, Athletic harbour hopes of securing their first Champions League berth since 2014.

Here's preview of Real Madrid's upcoming La Liga clash.

Real Madrid

Athletic Club

Osasuna 2-4 Real Madrid — 16/03/24

Athletic Club 2-0 Deportivo Alaves — 16/03/24

Real Madrid 4-0 Celta Vigo — 10/03/24

Las Palmas 0-2 Athletic Club — 10/03/24

Real Madrid 1-1 RB Leipzig — 06/03/24

Athletic Club 0-0 Barcelona — 03/03/24

Valencia 2-2 Real Madrid — 02/03/24

Athletic Club 3-0 Atletico Madrid — 29/02/24

Real Madrid 1-0 Sevilla — 25/02/24

Real Betis 3-1 Athletic Club — 25/02/24

Country

TV channel/live stream

United Kingdom

LaLigaTV, Viaplay UK, Viaplay Sports 1

United States

ESPN Deportes, ESPN+

Canada

TSN+

The hosts will be without superstar Vinicius Junior due to suspension on Sunday, so Joselu should partner Rodrygo up top. Vini Jr had scored five goals in his previous three games before the break.

Eduardo Camavinga is the only fresh injury concern after he picked up an ankle problem on international duty. His issue isn't believed to be serious,