Osasuna vs Athletic prediction, H2H and probable lineups - 3 January 2026
One of the matches of La Liga’s 18th round will take place this Saturday at El Sadar Stadium in Pamplona, where the local side Osasuna hosts Athletic Bilbao. Let's break down a betting tip for this clash that offers a promising chance of success.
Match preview
Osasuna, under the guidance of Alessio Lisci, have yet to live up to expectations, showing inconsistency and slipping dangerously close to the relegation zone. However, the team has made clear strides in attack: over the last ten La Liga matches, the Pamplona side has scored more than twice as many goals as in the opening seven rounds. In the Copa del Rey, Osasuna is also playing attacking football and, despite limited resources, have the ability to surprise at home.
The hosts are not dealing with major absences - only Iker Benito is ruled out through injury, while Oroz and Osambela could recover in time for the game. Budimir’s form has been impressive, and Raúl García brings fresh energy whenever he steps onto the pitch. Both teams are struggling, but Osasuna, playing at their fortress El Sadar, can certainly fight for points.
Athletic enter 2026 in a state of uncertainty: a domestic slump and a Champions League failure have led to a significant downturn in results. Ernesto Valverde’s side have gone nearly a month without a La Liga victory and have already slipped into mid-table. Despite having some bright individual talents, their overall team play has dropped, particularly at the back, where the Basques have surprisingly started to make frequent mistakes.
Injuries only make things worse: several key players are sidelined, including Berchiche, Laporte, and Berenguer. Valverde still relies on Iñaki Williams and Sancet, while trying to restore balance in defense with the help of young players. In their current form, Athletic no longer look like favorites, even against teams from the lower half of the table, and Osasuna could well take advantage.
Probable lineups
- Osasuna: Herrera, Bretones, Errando, Catena, Rosier, Torro, Moncayola, Muñoz, Oroz Uarte, García, Budimir
- Athletic: Simón, Arezo, Vivian, Paredes, Boiro, Ruiz, Jaureguizar, Williams, Sancet, Williams, Guruzeta
Match facts and head-to-head
- Athletic have scored at least twice against Osasuna in five of the last seven head-to-head meetings.
- Both teams have found the net in four of their last six encounters.
- Osasuna have scored 12 goals in their last 10 La Liga matches after netting just five in the first seven.
Prediction
Given the current instability and personnel issues, it will be tough for Athletic to claim all three points in Pamplona. Osasuna have improved in attack and are determined to keep the relegation zone at bay. Expect a closely contested game, goals from both sides, and a share of the spoils.
