Sports Betting. Athletic Bilbao vs Atletico Madrid [22.01.17] : on the Lion’s territory

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La Liga

Matchweek 19

22.01.2017

Bet: Total Goals under 2,25

Since the turn of the year Athletic have only one victory that came in a Cup match against Barcelona (2-1). However, as it was predicted by betting experts, they then suffered a 1-3 defeat in the second leg at Camp Nou and were eliminated from the tournament. Besides, the sports betting companies considered Los Leones to be a favorite in their last 2 La Liga games against Alaves and Leganes, but the team ended up with 2 scoreless draws. At this moment Valverde’s side sit on the 7^th position in Primera table.

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Before the start of the season Atletico Madrid were considered to be one of the main contenders for the title on the betting markets. However, Simeone’s side are 6 points behind Real Madrid who still have 1 game in hand. After the Christmas break Los Colchoneros have beaten Betis (1-0) and Eibar (2-0). They also made it through the round of 16 in Copa del Rey. However, the betting companies didn’t expect their victory to be so narrow (4-3).

While choosing a bet you should take into account the fact that Athletic are extremely dangerous at San Mames. They have suffered only one defeat at home so far this season and it came at the hands of Barcelona. At the same time Atletico have troubles playing away from home as they have only 4 wins along with 2 draws and 3 losses on the road. However, the betting experts remind that Valverde will miss Aketxe, Merino, Kepa, Benat and Aduriz. The last two are the key players to the team, so their absence will be tangible.

The bookmakers give preference to the away team: Athletic Bilbao – 4,00, Draw – 3,20, Atletico – 2,10. It’s quite fair as los Colchoneros have won the last 4 head-to-head meetings at San Mames in all competitions. But since Bilbao are nearly invincible at home this season, you may try to bet on “Double Chance: Athletic or Draw” (1,77). Besides, there is a good option “Total Goals under 2,25” (1,76). The bet “Athletic Bilbao or Draw and Total Goals under 2,5” (2,50) also seems to make it through.