FC Barcelona vs Athletic Bilbao Prediction 7 January 2026
Added on 05 January, 2026
Archrivals Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao meet in the first semi-final of the Spanish Super Cup, and on paper this one feels pretty one-sided.
Barcelona arrive in serious control-mode. They’re not only the reigning 2025 Spanish champions, but also the current league leaders, sitting four points clear at the top. What really stands out is consistency: their last four matches all ended in identical 2–0 wins against Osasuna, Guadalajara, Villarreal, and Espanyol. Efficient, calm, and ruthless when needed — very “tournament Barça” energy.
Athletic Bilbao, meanwhile, are going through a bumpier stretch. Over the past month, they’ve edged past Ourense (1–0) in the Copa del Rey, picked up a respectable 0–0 draw against PSG in the Champions League, but struggled domestically — losses to Celta Vigo (0–2) and Espanyol (1–2), plus a 1–1 draw with Osasuna. Those results have dragged the Lions down to eighth place, though European qualification is still very much within reach.
History doesn’t help Athletic’s case either. Exactly one year ago, Barcelona beat them in this same competition and then went on to dominate them twice in the league. The matchup trends, current form, and overall momentum all point in the same direction.
Barcelona look far too composed and clinical to stumble here. If they play anywhere near their recent level, the favorites should navigate this semi-final without unnecessary drama and move one step closer to lifting another trophy.
Barcelona to win 1.55