Real Madrid faces Athletic Club in La Liga after a disappointing Champions League exit, missing key player Mbappe.

Real Madrid`s recent UEFA Champions League campaign ended in disappointment as they fell 1-2 to Arsenal at home, resulting in a 1-5 aggregate defeat. This loss has heightened the pressure on the team as they prepare for a crucial La Liga clash against Athletic Club on April 20, 2025, at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Currently trailing league leaders Barcelona by four points, Real Madrid is desperate to close the gap. Athletic Club, sitting fourth in La Liga with 57 points, has been in formidable form, losing just once in their last 22 league matches and recently advancing to the Europa League semi-finals.

Real Madrid`s form has been concerning, with only one victory in their last five matches, a narrow 1-0 win over relegation-threatened Alaves. The absence of Kylian Mbappe, the team`s top scorer with 33 goals, due to suspension and an ankle injury, adds to their woes. Historically, Real Madrid has performed well against Athletic Club, winning eight of their last ten encounters, but the Basque side defeated them 2-1 in their previous meeting this season.

The Santiago Bernabéu crowd is expected to be tense following the Champions League exit, and Real Madrid will need to deliver a strong performance to keep their La Liga title hopes alive, especially with Barcelona facing Celta Vigo. Key players to watch include Karim Benzema for Real Madrid and Athletic`s consistent squad pushing for a Champions League finish.

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