Athletic Bilbao and Viktoria Plzen presents an intriguing matchup, particularly as both teams have contrasting stakes in the competition. Athletic Bilbao, currently positioned third in their group, is already assured of a place in the Round of 16 . In contrast, Viktoria Plzen sits at eleventh and requires a victory to enhance their chances of advancing further in the tournament. This dynamic sets the stage for a potentially competitive encounter.
Athletic Club guaranteed of at least a spot in the knockout round playoff. A draw would see the Basque side wrap up a top eight position and thus automatic entry into the round of 16.
After losing their first match of the Europa League campaign in a 4-1 away defeat to Besiktas last week, Athletic Club were unable to bounce back in a 0-0 home draw against Leganes in La Liga. They’ve now managed just a single win in their last six outings. 
Live broadcast here
Viktoria Plzen come into this fixture off the back of a crucial 2-0 home win over Anderlecht in matchday seven of the Europa League. Their third win of the league phase, the result has the Czech club guaranteed of at least a knockout round playoff spot.
Athletic Bilbao possible starting lineup: Agirrezabala; De Marcos, Paredes, Vivian, Berchiche; Prados, Jauregizar; I. Williams, Gomez, N. Williams; Guruzeta
Viktoria Plzen possible starting lineup: Jedlicka; Dweh, Markovic, Jemelka; Cadu, Cerv, Kalvach, Sulc, Havel; Adu, Vydra
Europa League game according to the bookies, with the gambling operators giving them a 63% probability due to their 1.60 betting odds. For those wanting to oppose the market leader, you can get 6.50 about Viktoria Plzeň.
The game is predicted to be a low-scoring one and that is borne out by Under 2.5 Goals trading at short odds. Both Teams to Score No is available at 1.70 for anyone expecting at least one side to draw a blank.
This match not only highlights the tactical challenges faced by both teams but also emphasizes the implications surrounding their respective standings in the tournament. As such, while predictions lean towards a low-scoring affair favoring Athletic Bilbao, the motivation of Viktoria Plzen could lead to an unexpected outcome. Ultimately, this encounter promises to deliver excitement and uncertainty typical of knockout-stage football.
Read more
Real Sociedad vs PAOK: Match Preview , Prediction and free online live stream Roma vs. Eintracht Frankfurt - prediction, free online , lineupsSarah H
Also on site :