San Mamés hosts Athletic Club vs Elche on Saturday 12 September 2026 (18:30 CEST). Athletic arrive off a statement 3–0 win over Atlético Madrid; Elche were beaten 2–3 at home by Real Sociedad.
Athletic Club: shape and personnel
Athletic Club dismantled Atlético Madrid 3–0 with Nico Williams, Robert Navarro and Oihan Sancet all on the scoresheet. Ernesto Valverde's side are flying at San Mamés and look nailed-on for European qualification form.
Athletic Club Predicted Starting XI & Lineup · 4-3-3
Official lineups confirmed 1 hour before kick-off.
Elche: shape and personnel
Elche fought back from behind twice but lost 2–3 at home to Real Sociedad, Fernando Niño their scorer. Eder Sarabia's newly-promoted side remain competitive but defensively fragile on the road.
How it’s likely to go
Nico Williams and Iñaki Williams running in behind an Elche defence that has shipped goals in bunches — Athletic's front three should have joy in the wide channels.
What I'd pick
- Nico Williams (Athletic Club, FWD): scored in the 3–0 win over Atlético, top form.
- Oihan Sancet (Athletic Club, MID): also on target last time out.
- Predictor: Athletic Club 2–0 Elche.
Final word
Athletic's dominant Jornada 4 form at home against a leaky Elche defence. Prediction: Athletic Club 2–0 Elche.