JEDDAH: Athletic Bilbao head coach Ernesto Valverde has played down his side’s chances of winning the Spanish Super Cup, but insisted his team will give everything to overcome Barcelona in Wednesday’s semi-final in Jeddah.
“We are not the favorites to win the Super Cup but we will strive hard to beat Barcelona,” Valverde told reporters.
“Barcelona is a great team with a rich history, but Athletic Bilbao is capable of competing, and we will strive to win in order to boost confidence.”
Valverde added that his squad would be physically prepared for the contest, highlighting the importance of his attacking options.
“We will enter the match tomorrow prepared in terms of physical readiness, especially Nico and Iñaki, who undoubtedly represent an important addition to the team,” he said.
Athletic Bilbao forward Inaki Williams said the team had travelled to Saudi Arabia determined to start the year on a positive note and make their supporters proud.
The winner of Wednesday’s encounter will meet either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid in Sunday’s final, after their capital derby clash on Thursday.
