Among several Matchday 8 clashes loaded with consequences, this one at Bilbao might intrigue the most. At the moment, Ernesto Valverde's Athletic sits in 23rd, barely into the KO phase, but no margin for error; only a win would make it very difficult for the Basque flagbearers not to advance. Though as has been the case much of this season, Athletic will be working thru various injuries, and tonight forced to dig deep at the San Mames as Espana internationals Nico Williams and Dani Vivian are out with injury, but there is still quality in the lineup and a sturdy GK in Spain international Unai Simon, whose spectacular effort to keep PSG off the board last month is still drawing raves. Play Athletic-Sporting Under

Given up for dead in this competition not long ago, Athletic has at least given itself a chance to reach the KO phase after getting results in three straight Champs League efforts, including a heroic draw at the San Mames vs. PSG and a stirring 3-2 win at Bergamo vs. Atlanta last week to stay alive. Wednesday at home will require digging deep as key cogs Nico Williams and Dani Vivian are both out with injury, but there is still quality in the lineup and a sturdy GK in Spain international Unai Simon, whose spectacular effort to keep PSG off the board last month is still drawing raves. Meanwhile, Sporting's motivation is less urgent, with passage to the KO phase assured. Play Athletic on ML