LaLiga: Athletic Bilbao vs Real Sociedad 01/02/2026

Athletic Bilbao are struggling badly with form, fatigue, and key absences, making their favorite status questionable. In contrast, Real Sociedad arrive in strong form and look well placed to exploit Bilbao’s slump, offering clear value on the visitors or avoiding a home win.

Betting on Handicap

Bilbao are going through their worst spell since the start of the season. Last Wednesday, they lost 3-2 at home to Sporting Lisbon and were eliminated from the Champions League. In the league, they are on a poor run, having taken just one point from their last five matches.

Lately, nothing seems to be working properly. Not even their defensive solidity and home strength, which were their main advantages. Burdened by a heavy schedule, key absences, and disappointment, they cannot justify the favorite role assigned to them by the bookmakers.

Real Sociedad, on the other hand, are in excellent form and with their recent results have returned to the fight for a European spot. Over the last six weeks, they have recorded five wins and two draws in seven matches, and they come into this game after three consecutive league victories.

The odds in the final result market clearly favor the home side. This assessment does not reflect the current form of the teams. Sociedad are playing well, winning matches, and are well positioned to take advantage of their opponent form slump, fatigue, and absences.