Barcelona vs Athletic Club Preview – prediction, team news, lineups | LaLiga 2026-27

The Lions have failed to score a goal in their last five games against the Blaugrana.

FC Barcelona are all set to battle it out against Athletic Club Bilbao for their matchweek 2 contest of the LaLiga 2026-27 campaign. The Spotify Camp Nou will witness this clash between these clubs.

The Hansi Flick-led side have kicked off their new season in a dominating fashion. They came out on top to secure a 5-0 victory against Elche. It was an easy victory for the Spanish giants, and they will now be looking to extend their winning run.

FC Barcelona are defending their LaLiga title, and they have initiated proceedings in style. With consistent performances like these, no one can stop them from becoming the Spanish champions once again. They will be at home for their upcoming contest, and it is only going to make things easier for them.

On the other hand, the Edin Terzić-led side are coming in after suffering a 1-3 loss at the hands of Sevilla FC in their opening game of the LaLiga 2026-27 season. It was a poor performance by the Lions. They still have things to figure out on the attacking front.

Against Barcelona, Athletic Club Bilbao cannot make the mistake of giving the ball away. The visitors are going to be under pressure. It will be interesting to see their approach this time around.

Kick-off:

• Location: Barcelona, Spain
• Stadium: Spotify Camp Nou
• Date: Friday, August 28
• Kick-off Time: 12:30 am IST (Thursday, August 27; 07:00 pm GMT/ 02:30 pm ET/ 11:30 am PT)
• Referee: TBA
• VAR: In use

Form:

Barcelona: W

Bilbao: L

Players to Watch

Raphinha (Barcelona)

The 29-year-old was deployed as a sole striker on the attacking front for FC Barcelona. It worked out well for Hansi Flick. Raphinha scored a sensational brace.

He bagged an assist to help his side secure a 5-0 win against Elche. He will once again be important for the Blaugrana. He is going to be a constant threat to the opponent’s defence.

Aitor Paredes (Athletic Club)

Aitor Paredes was the standout performer for Athletic Club in their 1-3 loss against Sevilla. He was the sole goal scorer for his side. His performance in the backline was good.

The 26-year-old Spanish centre-back will be looking to step up his game and help his side stop Barca’s attack.

Match Facts

• FC Barcelona are on a three-match losing streak.
• Athletic Club have faced consecutive defeats in their last four games.
• The Blaugrana have secured wins in all of their last five matches against the Lions.

Betting Tips & Odds

• FC Barcelona to win @1/3 William Hill
• Raphinha to score @5/4 Virgin Bet
• Goals over 3.5 @6/5 Paddy Power

Injury and Team News

Gavi, Frenkie de Jong and Roony Bardghji are not going to be in action for Barcelona. They are currently injured.

Athletic Club Bilbao will miss out on the services of Daniel Vivian and Unai Eguilluz. They are recovering from injuries. Yuri Berchiche is suspended.

Head-to-Head

Matches played: 247

Barcelona (wins): 127

Athletic Club (wins): 80

Draws: 40

Predicted Lineups

Barcelona predicted XI (4-2-3-1)

Garcia (GK); Cancelo, Christensen, Martin, Espart; Bernal, Pedri; Yamal, Lopez, Adeyemi; Raphinha

Athletic Club predicted XI (4-2-3-1)

Simon (GK); Areso, Alvarez, Paredes, Boiro; Gerenabarrena, Canales; Williams, Sancet, Berenguer; Guruzeta

Match Prediction

With their current squad quality and form, FC Barcelona are going to have a huge advantage. Athletic Club Bilbao are going to face a tough challenge and might not be able to survive it.

Hansi Flick’s men might come out on top to secure a win at Spotify Camp Nou in their upcoming fixture.

Prediction: Barca 4-0 Bilbao

Telecast Details

India: FanCode

UK: Disney+, Premier Sports

Spain: Movistar, DAZN and Teledeporte

USA: ESPN, ESPN+, ESPN Deportes

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