With all hopes of a domestic title extinguished, Scottish club Rangers FC will channel their energy into the UEFA Europa League, which now stands as their only hope for silverware this season. Spanish club Athletic Bilbao, who held Villarreal CF to a goalless draw on Matchday 30 of the Spanish La Liga season, will face Rangers in a double-leg quarterfinal fixture in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, April 10th, 2025, at 8 PM.
Match Preview: Rangers vs Athletic Bilbao
Scottish club Rangers FC will aim to reach the final four for the first time since losing in the 2021/2022 season as they take on Athletic Bilbao over two legs.
Rangers, who will first host the Spanish side, will be out to grab a comfortable advantage in the first leg — one that could keep them ahead heading into the reverse fixture in Spain.
Athletic Bilbao, meanwhile, will be determined to pull off a strong result away from home and chase their first UEFA Europa League semifinal since reaching the final in 2021.
Head-to-Head Record
This will be the first ever competitive meeting between Rangers and Athletic Bilbao.
Prediction
This opening leg at the Ibrox Stadium is expected to be a tight and cagey affair. Both sides are ambitious and evenly matched, which makes a draw the most likely outcome — though goals should still be expected.
Best Betting Odds on 1xBet:
- Draw – 3.69
- Over 1.5 Goals – 1.30
- Both Teams to Score (Yes) – 1.76
Players to Watch
Cyriel Dessers (Rangers)
Undoubtedly Rangers’ most in-form striker, the Nigerian forward’s goal-scoring form could prove vital across both legs of this quarterfinal tie. With 12 league goals this season, Dessers will be relied on for goals, while fellow Super Eagles star Leon Balogun will aim to shore up the defense.
Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao)
The 22-year-old Spanish winger will be a key attacking outlet for Bilbao. Known for his blistering pace and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses, Nico will be expected to create numerous chances for his side on the road.
