⚡ Why this pick
Full analysis
▶ Play Now at
18+ · T&Cs apply · Odds may change · Please gamble responsibly
AI-written editorial preview · updated 2026-09-14 19:49 UTC
Levante and Athletic Bilbao clash at Estadio Ciudad de Valencia
Levante return to the Estadio Ciudad de Valencia on Wednesday night for their matchday 6 fixture against Athletic Bilbao, looking to recover from a challenging start to the campaign. While Levante have navigated a mixed run of results, their visitors arrive with the momentum of a dominant win over Atletico Madrid earlier this month, setting the stage for an intriguing LaLiga encounter.
Levante’s path to this match has been defined by fluctuating fortunes. After a high-scoring 5-2 victory against Real Betis in late August, they struggled to find the net in consecutive draws against Osasuna and Malaga, before falling to a 4-2 defeat against Barcelona on 13 September. The side will be eager to solidify their defensive structure as they prepare to face a high-pressing Athletic outfit.
Athletic Bilbao have experienced a turbulent start to the season, alternating between clinical performances and defensive lapses. Their recent form includes a commanding 3-0 victory over Atletico Madrid on 5 September, though they were held to a 1-1 draw by Elche in their most recent outing on 12 September. Notably, the visitors have shown a persistent ability to strike late, with six of their goals in the last 10 matches arriving after the 75th minute.
Both managers face selection challenges as they finalize their expected XIs for this midweek clash. Levante are expected to rely on Mathew Ryan in goal, with a defensive line featuring Manuel Sanchez and Aissa Mandi, while Ivan Romero leads the attacking efforts. Athletic Bilbao will be without the services of key forwards Inaki Williams and Gorka Guruzeta due to injury, forcing a reshuffle in their attacking setup. Nico Williams and Maroan Sannadi are expected to spearhead the visitors' forward line, supported by Oihan Sancet in the middle of the park.
Recent meetings between these two clubs have frequently tilted in favour of the visitors. Athletic Bilbao secured a 4-2 victory when the sides last met in LaLiga on 8 February 2026, and they also claimed a 2-0 win in their previous visit to this venue in November 2025. Levante will be looking to break that trend and secure a result that mirrors their more competitive performances from earlier in the season.
With Athletic Bilbao missing their primary attacking threats, the tactical focus will shift to how effectively they can utilize their midfield creativity to break down the Levante block. Levante’s ability to transition quickly, as demonstrated in their win over Real Betis, will be their primary weapon against an Athletic side that thrives on late-match intensity. Whether the hosts can maintain their composure under pressure will likely determine the outcome of this match.
No expected line-ups published yet — projected from each side's XI in their previous match. Locks as Confirmed ~1h before kickoff.
Last ten matches each side.