Athletic Club vs. Real Madrid
La Liga Match Preview
Wednesday, December 3, 2025 – Estadio de San Mamés
A Legacy Forged in Fire
This document outlines the details and context for a La Liga match between Athletic Club and Real Madrid, scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the Estadio de San Mamés in Bilbao, Spain. This fixture, often referred to as “El Viejo Clásico” or “El Otro Clásico,” highlights its historical significance and deep-rooted rivalry. Both clubs share the unique distinction of having participated in every single La Liga season since its inception.
Historical Context and Rivalry Roots
- Origins: The rivalry dates back to the first Copa del Rey in 1903, where Athletic Club defeated Real Madrid in the final, sparking a long-standing competition. This early clash also influenced the creation of what would become Atlético Madrid.
- Philosophical Clash: Athletic Club’s unique policy of exclusively fielding Basque players symbolizes regional identity, contrasting with Real Madrid’s global strategy of acquiring international star players.
- Shared Distinction: Both Athletic Club and Real Madrid, along with Barcelona, are member-owned (socios) clubs and have never been relegated from La Liga.
A glimpse into history: An early 20th-century clash of titans.
Current Form & League Standings (La Liga 2025-26, Matchday 15)
Real Madrid
- Position: Second in La Liga
- Points: 33
- Record: 10 wins, 3 draws, 1 loss
- Recent Form: Three consecutive draws in La Liga (vs. Rayo Vallecano, Elche, Girona), trailing league leaders Barcelona by four points.
Athletic Club
- Position: Eighth in La Liga
- Points: 20
- Record: 6 wins, 2 draws, 6 losses (after 14 matches)
- Recent Form: Coming off a 2-0 away win against Levante, showing renewed momentum.
- Home Advantage: Playing at their home ground, Estadio de San Mamés.
Key Players and Their Form
Real Madrid Stars
- Vinícius Júnior: One of the world’s best, known for pace, technique, and dribbling. Maintained strong performance after being named 2024 UEFA Champions League Player of the Season.
- Kylian Mbappé: In sensational goal-scoring form, reaching 60 goals in 2025. Scored in his third consecutive game (vs. Girona).
- Jude Bellingham: Adapting to Xabi Alonso’s system, 5 goals and 3 assists across competitions.
- Rodrygo: Experiencing a significant goal drought, the longest for a forward in Real Madrid’s 123-year history.
Real Madrid’s attacking prowess: Vinícius, Mbappé, and Bellingham.
Athletic Club’s local heroes: Nico Williams, Iñaki Williams, and Guruzeta.
Athletic Club Talent
- Nico Williams: Superb form, attracting top European clubs. Known for speed and dribbling. 3 goals, 2 assists in 10 La Liga appearances. Contract extended until 2035.
- Iñaki Williams: Resurgence in right-wing position. 6 goals, 3 assists in 14 games, nearing career-best.
- Gorka Guruzeta: Athletic’s top scorer last season, vital upfront for combinations and crucial goals.
- Oihan Sancet: Significant absentee due to suspension (red card vs. Barcelona). Crucial goal threat.
Head-to-Head Statistics
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Last Five Encounters | Real Madrid won 3, Athletic Club won 1, 1 draw |
| Most Recent Clash (Apr 20, 2025) | Real Madrid won 1-0 |
| Last Season at San Mamés | Athletic Club defeated Real Madrid 2-1 |
| Overall (Since 2003, 59 matches) | Real Madrid won 35, Athletic Club won 8, 6 draws |
| San Mamés Factor | Matches at “La Catedral” are notoriously challenging for visiting teams. |
Match Details & Expectations
- Date: Wednesday, December 3, 2025
- Kick-off Time: 7 p.m. local time (Bilbao) | 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT (USA) | 6 p.m. GMT
- Venue: Estadio de San Mamés, Bilbao, Spain
- Referee: Jesús Gil Manzano
- VAR: Daniel Trujillo Suárez
- Expected Formations: 4-2-3-1 for both teams (suggesting an open, attacking game)
- Key Tactical Battles: Midfield control and wing play, particularly involving Nico Williams and Kylian Mbappé.
- Atmosphere: Expected to be electric at San Mamés.
Expected Lineups:
Athletic Club:
Simón; Gorosabel, Vivian, Laporte, Berchiche; Jauregizar, Ruiz de Galarreta; Berenguer, Gómez, Williams; Guruzeta.
Real Madrid:
Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Militão, Rüdiger, Carreras; Tchouaméni, Camavinga; Valverde, Bellingham; Vinícius; Mbappé.
“La Catedral” under the lights: Estadio de San Mamés, ready for battle.
Where to Watch
Catch all the action of “El Viejo Clásico” live! Broadcast details typically vary by region.
Check your local sports broadcasters or streaming services for full coverage:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “El Viejo Clásico”?
“El Viejo Clásico” (The Old Classic) or “El Otro Clásico” (The Other Classic) refers to the historic rivalry between Athletic Club and Real Madrid, two of La Liga’s founding clubs that have never been relegated.
When is Athletic Club vs. Real Madrid?
The match is scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, 2025.
Where is the match played?
The game will take place at the Estadio de San Mamés in Bilbao, Spain, Athletic Club’s home ground.
Who are the key players to watch?
For Real Madrid, keep an eye on Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, and Jude Bellingham. For Athletic Club, Nico Williams, Iñaki Williams, and Gorka Guruzeta will be crucial.
Conclusion
The “El Viejo Clásico” match on December 3, 2025, between Athletic Club and Real Madrid is anticipated to be a captivating La Liga encounter. It represents a battle for pride and identity, continuing a rivalry that has shaped Spanish football. Real Madrid aims to recover from recent draws, while Athletic Club seeks to assert dominance at home. The match is expected to feature intense tactical play, brilliant individual performances, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Don’t miss this crucial La Liga showdown!
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