Wednesday 27/08/2014, 20:45, Champions League Qualifiers, Athletic Bilbao vs Napoli
Athletic Bilbao vs Napoli Preview
Athletic Bilbao was on the verge of winning the first leg, but they couldn't hold on to their narrow lead and allowed the Italian side to score the equalizer in the second half. Now they return home knowing that even a scoreless draw can see them through and will be less likely to play offensive football. Napoli was credited with the first chance to advance to the next stage, but everything changed after failing to win in front of their fans and desperately need to score at least once on the road.
Athletic Bilbao vs Napoli Odds
At Bet365
Athletic Bilbao 2.10, Draw 3.80, Napoli 3.50
Athletic Bilbao vs Napoli Tips
Napoli finds itself between a rock and a hard place, having no choice but to shift into a more aggressive gear despite lacking home pitch advantage. Higuain is guaranteed to play up front after scoring the only goal in Italy, but he will be joined by Insigne and Callejon. The offensive Trident didn't deliver the expected results one week ago and Insigne could lose his spot in the starting formation to Mertens.
The visitors will need to pay extra attention tonight, because being compelled to win on the road could provide the hosts with better chances to score on the counterattack. Athletic Bilbao fielded a surprisingly offensive starting formation in Italy and the same three strikers are expected to play together.
Aduriz will spearhead the offensive, followed closely by Susaeta and Muniain, with the latter being the author of the opening goal last week. The hosts are very likely to field an all-Spanish side, with Laporte suffering a slight injury in the last match. The Frenchman will probably start as a result and San Jose will be given a chance to prove his worth in the back line.
Napoli had better ball possession in the first leg and created numerous scoring opportunities, but casually missed all of them. Tonight they need to be more clinical if they are to advance the Champions League groups and they are supposed to exercise constant pressure.
Key Facts
- Athletic Bilbao failed to win in any of the last three games and were held scoreless twice.
- Napoli played four games this month and scored in each of them at least once.
Athletic Bilbao vs Napoli Prediction
Once again, value is with the visiting team, as those who are willing to give Italian side credit tonight enjoy odds of 1.70 for a double chance wager. Napoli to win or Draw is a great wager for risk-averse punters who hope to maximize their profits, without taking unnecessary chances.
Bet: Napoli or Draw @ 1.70 with Bet365
