On Saturday, 17 January 2026, RCD Mallorca host Athletic Bilbao at Son Moix in a La Liga clash that could decide Mallorca’s fight for survival and keep Bilbao in the hunt for European qualification. A win lifts Mallorca out of the relegation zone, while Bilbao aims to solidify a top‑ten push. Both teams need three points to advance their season goals.
Current Form and Stakes
Mallorca sit 17th after 19 rounds with 18 points (four wins, five draws, ten defeats). Recent results include a 2‑1 win over Alavés and a 3‑0 loss to Real Betis, highlighting inconsistency. A victory would move them to 16th, narrowing the safety gap to three points.
Athletic Bilbao occupy ninth place with 28 points. Their latest performances feature a 1‑0 win over Getafe and a 2‑2 draw with Osasuna, keeping them within reach of Europa League spots. Manager Ernesto Valverde looks to maintain momentum and push further up the table.
Head‑to‑Head History
The clubs have met 46 times in La Liga, each winning 23 matches with 20 draws. Their most recent encounter in the 2024‑25 season ended 0‑0 at Son Moix, underscoring defensive solidity on both sides.
Statistically, Mallorca have scored nine goals and conceded 31 in 19 games, while Bilbao have netted 28 and allowed 27. The numbers favor Bilbao, but Mallorca’s home advantage and urgent need for points could tighten the contest.
Predicted Line‑ups and Key Players
Mallorca (4‑2‑3‑1)
- GK: Álvaro Fernández
- Defence: Alberto Sergio, Damián Suárez, Joao Lopes, Marc Bartra
- Holding Midfield: Adrià Gómez, Salva Sánchez
- Attacking Midfield: Yangel Moisés, Yannis Moulin, Samu Milan
- Forward: Luan Vargas
Mallorca’s injury list includes forward Samu Milan (hamstring) and centre‑back Marc Bartra (suspension risk). Luan Vargas will aim to end his 12‑game goalless streak.
Athletic Bilbao (4‑4‑2)
- GK: Unai Simón
- Defence: Jon Mauri, Iñigo Méndez, Álvaro Gómez, Ander Cárdenas
- Midfield: Iñaki Williams, Mikel Álvarez, Mertxe Berna, Óscar de María
- Forwards: Raúl Gómez, Iñaki Williams (high‑up)
Bilbao miss midfielder Carlos Vazquez (minor knee issue). The striking duo of Raúl Gómez and Iñaki Williams have combined for 11 goals this season.
Tactical Battle
Mallorca are expected to employ a compact, counter‑attacking 4‑2‑3‑1, relying on the pace of Yangel Moisés and Yannis Moulin to exploit Bilbao’s full‑backs. Their double‑pivot aims to disrupt Bilbao’s possession and launch quick transitions.
Valverde’s Bilbao favor a fluid 4‑4‑2 with width provided by overlapping full‑backs Jon Mauri and Ander Cárdenas. Crossing from the flanks will target Raúl Gómez, while controlling midfield will be crucial to stretch Mallorca’s defensive block.
Live Coverage and Betting Angles
Fans can follow live updates via official La Liga streaming platforms, which provide minute‑by‑minute commentary, video highlights, and real‑time statistics such as possession, shots on target, and expected goals (xG).
Betting markets list Bilbao as slight favorites, typically with an Asian handicap of Bilbao – 0.5 and an over/under set at 2.5 goals. Considering Mallorca’s defensive vulnerabilities and Bilbao’s attacking strength, a “Both Teams to Score – Yes” ticket is attractive, while an “Under 2.5” bet could suit those expecting a tight, tactical showdown.
Post‑Match Implications
If Mallorca secure at least a point, they move closer to safety and could force a relegation battle among the bottom five clubs. A win would also boost morale ahead of upcoming mid‑table fixtures.
For Bilbao, a victory strengthens their top‑half position and keeps the Europa League dream alive. A draw would stall progress and open the door for rivals such as Sevilla or Real Sociedad to close the gap for European qualification.
