Osasuna vs Athletic Bilbao Match Preview
Two consecutive defeats have sank Osasuna at the 15th position, and a victory against Athletic is mandatory not to fall under the creepy reach of the relegation hand. Joaquin Caparros' Lions must overcome last week's defeat at Real Madrid's hands to remain competitive in the European fight.
Osasuna's coach is aware he'll need to be extremely careful at the Reyno de Navarra to stop Athletic from bagging the three points. Defender Sergio Fernandez return to the starting eleven, but Carlos Aranda, Masoud Shojaei and Roberto Lopez are sidelined due to injuries.
Carlos Gurpegi, Aitor Ocio, Iñigo Díaz de Cerio and Javi Martinez are among the most startling absentees on Athletic's formation for this clash. Fernando Amorabieta will boost the defense of the team, just as much as Urko Vera will strengthen the attack.
Is Osasuna ready to send Athletic back home empty-handed and demonstrate they have what it takes to fight in the Primera Division?