Athletic Bilbao - Elche CF ai prediction 20.02.2026 Primera División

Preview for Athletic Bilbao vs Elche CF

On Friday, February 20th, 2026, Athletic Bilbao and Elche CF will clash at the iconic San Mamés Stadium for what promises to be an intriguing encounter in the Primera División. This match, scheduled for 21:00, will be a pivotal one for both teams as they aim to improve their standings in the league table. Athletic Bilbao, currently holding the 9th position with 31 points, will be eager to capitalize on their home advantage to climb higher in the rankings. In contrast, Elche CF, positioned 16th with 25 points, will be desperate for a win to distance themselves further from the relegation zone.

Athletic Bilbao comes into this fixture with a mixed bag of results. Having secured 9 wins, 4 draws, and 11 losses this season, they have scored 27 goals while conceding 34. Their form at home has been relatively solid, with 6 victories, 2 draws, and 4 defeats. Manager Ernesto Valverde will be keen to guide his squad to another home win, reinforcing their position in the top half of the table.

Elche CF, under the stewardship of Eder Sarabia, has found life in the Primera División challenging this season. With only 5 wins, 10 draws, and 9 losses, they have managed to score 31 goals but have conceded 35. Their away form remains a significant concern, as they have yet to secure a victory on the road, recording 4 draws and 7 losses. Sarabia will be looking for his team to break this away duck and secure a much-needed victory in Bilbao.

This match is not just about points; it's about pride and the opportunity to gain momentum as the season heads into its crucial final stages. Fans can expect a hard-fought contest between two teams with much at stake.

Our Betting Tip for Athletic Bilbao vs Elche CF

Our prediction for this encounter points towards a home win for Athletic Bilbao. The team's robust home performance, coupled with Elche CF's struggles on the road, gives the hosts a clear edge. Athletic Bilbao's recent form, with 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 defeat in their last five matches, suggests they are well-poised to secure another victory. Additionally, we predict that both teams will find the back of the net during the match, given both sides' defensive vulnerabilities.

Our tips

Total Goals

Over 2.5

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 5 of Athletic Bilbao's last 7 matches.

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 2 of Elche CF's last 3 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

Double Chance

X2

Athletic Bilbao have drawn or lost 4 of their last 7 matches.

Elche CF have won or drawn 1 of their last 3 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

Double Chance

12

Athletic Bilbao have won or lost 6 of their last 7 matches.

Elche CF have won or lost 2 of their last 3 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

AI Prediction for Athletic Bilbao vs Elche CF

The AI prediction for this match, based on current statistics and team performances, favors a win for Athletic Bilbao. The likelihood of a 2-1 scoreline seems plausible, considering the attacking potential and defensive fragilities of both teams. Betting on a home win is a promising option, and the chances of both teams scoring appear favorable.

Athletic Bilbao Performance Check

Under the guidance of Ernesto Valverde, Athletic Bilbao has been a formidable force at home. The team has shown resilience and determination, which has been reflected in their recent performances. With 9 wins and a solid home record, Valverde will aim to continue this momentum against Elche CF. Their recent victory against Real Oviedo has boosted their confidence, and they will look to build on this success.

How Is the Current Performance of Elche CF?

Elche CF, managed by Eder Sarabia, has faced significant challenges this season. The team has struggled to secure wins, especially away from home, where they have yet to claim a victory. With 10 draws and 9 losses, Elche CF's inability to close out games has been a recurring issue. Their goalless draw against CA Osasuna highlighted their need for a more clinical approach in front of goal.

Last Direct Match

The last encounter between these two teams ended in a stalemate, with neither side able to break the deadlock. The 0-0 draw was a testament to the evenly matched nature of their previous meetings. Both teams will be eager to secure a definitive result this time around.

Head-to-Head Last Direct Meetings

In their last five encounters across all competitions, Athletic Bilbao has secured two wins, while Elche CF has managed one victory, with the remaining two matches ending in draws. This balanced head-to-head record suggests a closely contested match might be on the cards.

Performance Last 5 Matches

Athletic Bilbao has shown promising form with 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 defeat in their last five matches. Elche CF, on the other hand, has struggled, failing to secure a win, with 2 draws and 3 losses. This contrasting form could play a significant role in determining the outcome of the upcoming match.

Performance

Athletic Bilbao

Last games

Athletic Bilbao performance of the last 5 home matches

Victories

20%

Over 2.5

60%

Elche CF

Last games

Elche CF performance of the last 5 away matches

Victories

20%

Over 2.5

60%

Last Match Results: Athletic Bilbao and Elche CF

Athletic Bilbao's recent triumph over Real Oviedo, with a 2-1 scoreline, underscores their ability to perform under pressure. Conversely, Elche CF's last match resulted in a 0-0 draw against CA Osasuna, indicating their ongoing struggles to convert chances into goals.

Best Odds and Our Betting Tip

For those interested in wagering, the best odds for a home win can be found at Betwinner with an odd of 1.71. For a draw, Paripesa offers odds of 4.00, while an away win for Elche CF at Gbets is priced at 5.75. Both teams to score is an evenly matched market at Gbets, with odds of 1.91 for either outcome. In our experience, you can find the best betting sites in our bookmaker comparison.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Athletic Bilbao holds the advantage going into this match, given their superior home form and recent performances. Elche CF will need to overcome their away challenges to stand a chance. Our prediction leans towards a home win for Athletic Bilbao, with both teams likely to score. Looking ahead, here are tomorrow's best football tips that will provide more opportunities for successful wagering.

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