Bilbao vs Madrid Lineups: Tactical Breakdown and Key Player Insights
Bilbao vs Madrid Lineups: Real Madrid’s Tactical Setup
Bilbao vs Madrid lineups the recent La Liga encounter between Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao on April 20, 2025, Real Madrid secured a narrow 1-0 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu, with Federico Valverde scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time.
Real Madrid’s starting lineup featured Thibaut Courtois in goal, with a defensive line comprising Raúl Asencio del Rosario, Antonio Rüdiger, and Eduardo Camavinga.
Notably, Kylian Mbappé was absent from the squad due to injury, prompting manager Carlo Ancelotti to adjust the attacking formation. The midfield trio of Modric, Tchouaméni, and Ceballos provided stability, allowing Bellingham to make forward runs and support the attack.
Substitutions included Arda Güler replacing Modric in the 78th minute, adding fresh legs to the midfield and attack.
Athletic Bilbao’s Formation and Key Players
Athletic Bilbao, managed by Ernesto Valverde, fielded a lineup with Unai Simón as the goalkeeper. The defense featured Andoni Gorosabel, Aitor Paredes, and Adama Boiro. In midfield, Mikel Vesga and Beñat Prados provided support, while the attack was led by Álex Berenguer, Unai Gómez, and Gorka Guruzeta.
Inaki Williams and Oihan Sancet were notable absentees, affecting Bilbao’s attacking options. Despite this, the team maintained a compact formation, focusing on defensive solidity and quick transitions.
Substitutions included Dani Vivian replacing Boiro in the 87th minute, and Oihan Sancet coming on for Guruzeta in the 62nd minute, aiming to inject creativity into the midfield.
Bilbao vs Madrid Lineups: Match Analysis and Tactical Insights
The match was characterized by Real Madrid’s dominance in possession and Bilbao’s disciplined defensive approach. Real Madrid controlled 63% of the possession, attempting to break down Bilbao’s low block with patient build-up play. Bilbao, on the other hand, utilizing the pace of their wingers to exploit spaces left by Madrid’s advancing full-backs.
The decisive moment came in stoppage time when Valverde capitalized on a defensive lapse to score the winning goal.
Conclusion: Bilbao vs Madrid Lineups and Match Outcome
The April 2025 clash between Athletic Bilbao and Real Madrid highlighted the tactical nuances of both teams. Real Madrid’s ability to adapt their lineup in the absence of key players like Mbappé showcased their depth and tactical flexibility. Athletic Bilbao’s disciplined approach kept the match competitive, but ultimately, Real Madrid’s persistence paid off with a late winner.
Bilbao vs Madrid Lineups: Post-Match Reflections and Impact
Following the final whistle, both teams walked away with valuable takeaways. Although Athletic Bilbao fell short on the scoreboard, their disciplined structure and well-coordinated defensive blocks impressed viewers and analysts alike. Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s ability to find solutions despite missing stars like Kylian Mbappé highlights their squad’s versatility and resilience.
Moreover, the adjustments made during the second half—particularly the introduction of Endrick and Arda Güler—proved instrumental in shifting momentum. As the season progresses, these tactical decisions and lineup dynamics will likely play a crucial role in defining each team’s position in the La Liga title race.
