Atalanta will go head-to-head with Athletic Bilbao in a friendly match scheduled for 01:45 on August 15, 2026. This encounter comes as both teams prepare for the upcoming season, and predictions suggest that Bilbao may secure a close win by a single goal.

Bilbao has shown impressive form in their summer friendlies, achieving five wins and one draw before suffering a 1-3 defeat against Marseille in their latest outing. Their recent history against Italian teams also favors them, as they previously defeated Atalanta 3-2 in a Champions League match earlier this year. Key players like Gorka Guruzeta and Robert Navarro, who contributed to that victory, are likely to feature in this upcoming match.

In contrast, Atalanta's performance has been inconsistent, with only three wins in their last eleven matches. This unpredictability poses a challenge for the Serie A side as they prepare to face a formidable Bilbao team.

Both teams are expected to field competitive lineups, with Atalanta missing players Bernasconi and Kossounou due to injuries. Bilbao's Nico Williams has returned to training but may not start the match.

Projected Lineups

• Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Ahanor, Scalvini, Kossounou; Bellanova, De Ketelaere, Gaetano, Samardzic; Scamacca, Ederson; Raspadori
• Athletic Bilbao (4-2-3-1): Padilla; Alvarez, Berchiche, Paredes, Rincon; Jauregizar, Sancet; Navarro, Canales, I. Williams; Guruzeta

Statistics indicate that both teams have been involved in high-scoring matches recently, with Atalanta's last three games featuring at least three goals. Similarly, Bilbao has seen a trend of high-scoring encounters, making this match one to watch for fans of attacking football.

In conclusion, while both teams are likely to put forth a strong effort, Bilbao is favored to come out on top. The predicted scoreline is 2-1 in favor of Athletic Bilbao.