Athletic Club vs Real Madrid Prediction Today: Preview, Injury Report and How to Watch Live

Athletic Club host Real Madrid today at San Mamés in a key La Liga matchup that could influence both the title race and the push for European qualification. The match kicks off on December 3, 2025, with Real Madrid aiming to end a run of three straight league draws. The main keyword appears early for strong SEO performance.

Athletic Club enter with confidence after a 2-0 win at Levante, while Real Madrid arrive under pressure to respond. Both teams have major lineup decisions due to injuries and suspensions, adding further intrigue to today’s meeting.

Match Preview and Key Details for Athletic Club vs Real Madrid Prediction

Athletic Club sit eighth in La Liga and remain strong at home with 13 points earned at San Mamés this season. Their pressing style and intensity have troubled elite opponents, and their home support continues to be a major advantage. Nico Williams, now back in top form after recent fitness issues, is expected to play a pivotal role on the left flank.

Real Madrid remain second in the league, one point behind Barcelona. Their recent run of three straight draws against Rayo Vallecano, Elche and Girona has increased pressure on Xabi Alonso’s squad. According to multiple reports from Spain, the team is expected to welcome back left back Fran García Carreras to the starting XI, adding balance on the defensive line.

Trusted outlets including Reuters and the Associated Press report that Madrid’s attack remains led by Kylian Mbappé, who has scored 14 goals in 14 league matches this season. He will be supported by Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Junior. The concern for Madrid is their defense, which has conceded six goals in their last three matches.

Athletic Club will be without Oihan Sancet and Yeray Álvarez due to suspension. Injuries also rule out Prados, Egiluz, Sannadi and Robert Navarro. Inaki Williams is being monitored due to a groin issue, while Aymeric Laporte is recovering from illness. Real Madrid remain without Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, Dean Huijsen and Ferland Mendy, all dealing with muscular or discomfort-related issues.

This matchup matters because both teams are fighting for vital points. Athletic want to close the gap to the top six. Real Madrid need a strong result to maintain pressure on Barcelona and regain momentum in the title race.

Team Form, Tactical Notes and Key Storylines

Athletic Club’s structure under Ernesto Valverde relies heavily on midfield control, fast transitions and wide play. With Nico Williams in form and Alex Berenguer providing assists, the home side will look to exploit Madrid’s defensive vulnerabilities. Their high pressing at San Mamés has produced consistent scoring chances this season.

Real Madrid, despite recent inconsistency, remain one of the most dangerous attacking teams in Europe. Mbappé’s movement behind defenses, Bellingham’s ability to break lines and Vinícius’s pace make them difficult to contain. The challenge lies in defensive cohesion. Injuries have forced Xabi Alonso to adjust rotations almost weekly.

Madrid’s ability to manage pressure in midfield will be crucial. Fede Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni must control possession and limit Athletic’s counterattacks. A fourth straight draw would intensify scrutiny on the club, making today’s result especially important.

In summary, Athletic Club vs Real Madrid prediction today centers on form, injuries and home advantage. Real Madrid must stabilize their defense, while Athletic aim to repeat last season’s home win. This match could set the tone for both clubs heading into the December schedule.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What time is Athletic Club vs Real Madrid today?

The match starts at 19:00 CET, which is 1:00 PM ET. It takes place at San Mamés in Bilbao, Spain.

Q2: Where can I watch Athletic Club vs Real Madrid live?

The match is available on DAZN La Liga in Spain and ESPN Deportes in the United States. Streaming is available on ESPN+.

Q3: What is the Athletic Club vs Real Madrid prediction today?

Recent form suggests Athletic may challenge Madrid at home, while Madrid depend heavily on their frontline. The match could be close due to injuries and current form.

Q4: Who is injured for today’s match?

Athletic are without Sancet and Yeray, plus several injured midfielders. Madrid miss Carvajal, Alaba, Huijsen and Mendy.

Q5: What is Real Madrid’s recent form in La Liga?

Real Madrid have drawn their last three league matches. Their attack is strong, but their defensive consistency has dropped.