The Athletic Club has finally found its rhythm in the UEFA Europa League after years of yearning. The Lions remain unbeaten with four matches under their belt, aiming to finish the group stage among the top eight in order to secure direct qualification to the Round of 16. Furthermore, a victory against Elfsborg, coupled with a few favorable results from other matches, could see them soar to the top of the table.
The recent league victory in the derby against Real Sociedad has bolstered an Athletic side that faces a dual challenge this week: to continue their European campaign against Elfsborg and then secure another win at Vallecas. The positive linkage between European and league performances is something that has yet to be achieved this season. The clash against the Swedes marks the return of goalkeeper Unai Simón, fully recovered from the wrist injury that required him to undergo surgery following the Euro 2020. The international keeper will compete for the starting spot with Agirrezabala, indicating a rotation in the squad for the competitions ahead.
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Elfsborg’s aspiration for qualification hinges on remaining in the playoff group, and they will need more than their solitary victory so far to achieve that. Having already concluded their domestic league, the Swedes regularly partake in friendlies to keep their form. They are known for their lively and vertical style of play, boasting a diverse squad that includes four Ghanaian, three Danish, two Nigerian, two Kosovarian, one Icelander, and one Kenyan player.
The matchup features Iñaki Williams against Baidoo. The elder Williams shares a spot in the Ghana national team with Elfsborg’s top European goalscorer this season. Iñaki has netted two goals in this Europa League campaign, and the effort management approach that Valverde will adopt won’t exclude him from playing time.
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The Athletic Club is expected to secure a comfortable victory against Elfsborg at San Mamés. Ernesto Valverde’s side arrives in high spirits after three consecutive wins in the Europa League, and it would be surprising if they failed to collect all three points in Bilbao.
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