Aduriz unsettles a La Real who are afraid of failing

Tonight’s derby at Anoeta has nothing to do with the one of January 5, when La Real strove to catch up with Athletic, who were occupying a Champions League spot. They won the battle, but not the war. Their present needs are more urgent. La Real dismissed Arrasate and went for Moyes, who has landed in San Sebastián. They are now fleeing the drop zone and have a three-point cushion over 18th place. Athletic Club are eight points clear. They haven’t looked up since their awkward day against Córdoba.

The locals cling to their good performances at home since the dismissal of Jagoba, with victories against Atlético and Elche. They will arrive to the derby with problems in midfield, without Markel Bergara (although he will fight until the last minute to reach match fitness) and Elustondo, and with many doubts and logical fear after the drubbing they received at Villarreal. They have lost the magic that Griezmann provided in previous derbies and now rely mostly on the effectiveness of Vela. They have, with Granero and Canales, a lot of talent between the lines. But they suffer without the ball and in central defence.

Indeed, their centre-backs will today find an enemy in Aduriz, who returns to lead the Athletic attack after his injury. He has only scored one goal away from home – at Vallecas – during this Liga campaign, but we all know that he is a danger in the area. He is the major threat. Him and San José, who has scored three goals from set-pieces in recent matches.

Strong pressure. La Real will enter the match energetically, which will allow them to heat up the stands. However, it is expected that Athletic will be the team who control the game, with La Real trying to use the counter-attack as their weapon.

Finnbogason arrives without scoring

Aduriz has only scored two goals for Athletic at Anoeta - both came in a 3-3 draw that took place nearly eight years ago. Iceland international Finnbogason, who was La Real’s star summer signing, arrives to the derby without a goal to his name. Three foreign forwards have scored against the eternal rival at Anoeta: Meho Kodro (three goals), Darko Kovacevic (two goals) and Morten Skoubo (one). Finnbogason will want to win over his crowd from today.

from Últimas noticias | Diario AS http://ift.tt/1sriupd

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