This La Liga encounter pits a wounded Athletic Bilbao against a struggling, newly-promoted Real Oviedo. Athletic's recent form is alarming, with three consecutive defeats, including losses in the Champions League and to rivals Real Sociedad. Compounding their issues is a severe injury crisis, with star attackers Iñaki and Nico Williams, along with Oihan Sancet, either ruled out or major doubts. However, the fortress of San Mamés provides a significant advantage, as the Basques have earned the majority of their league points on home turf. Their underlying quality, even with absences, far surpasses that of their opponents. Real Oviedo's return to the top flight has been arduous. They currently sit in the relegation zone, winless in five and having scored the fewest goals in the division. Their attack has been toothless, and their recent Copa del Rey exit to a lower-tier side underscores a deep lack of confidence. Manager Luis Carrión will almost certainly set his team up to frustrate the hosts, aiming to secure a point through a disciplined, low block. The historical head-to-head record heavily favors Athletic, particularly in matches played in Bilbao. Given Oviedo's inability to score and Bilbao's desperate need for a win to stabilize their season, a controlled victory for the home side, likely without conceding, is the most logical conclusion.