Athletic Bilbao vs RCD Espanyol Prediction 22 December 2025

Athletic Bilbao finished fourth last season, but have dropped closer to mid-table this time around, largely due to fatigue from a demanding schedule. After facing Barcelona (0–4), Levante (2–0), Real Madrid (0–3), Atlético Madrid (1–0), and Celta Vigo (0–2), the Lions currently sit eighth with 23 points and a goal difference of 15–22.

Espanyol, on the other hand, have been one of the season’s biggest surprises. They’ve surged to fifth place with 30 points and a 20–16 goal difference — a remarkable turnaround compared to the 2024/25 campaign, when they were fighting to avoid relegation. The Catalans arrive on a four-match winning streak, having beaten Sevilla (2–1), Celta Vigo (1–0), Rayo Vallecano (1–0), and Getafe (1–0).

Both sides tend to collect the bulk of their points at home, which gives Athletic Bilbao a slight edge here. That said, Espanyol have shown enough resilience and discipline to make a draw a very realistic outcome.

Athletic to win by one goal or draw (yes) 1.68