Los Blancos can start title defence with routine victory

Sky Sports Football, from 5.15pm Sunday

Athletic Bilbao v Getafe5.15pm
Athletic Bilbao lost just two league games on their own patch last term and the dominant Lions can kickstart their 2017-18 campaign with a routine home triumph over Getafe.

Jose Ziganda’s men overcame Greek outfit Panathinaikos 3-2 in the Europa League in midweek and that should give them a significant fitness edge over the goal-shy visitors, who won only three league matches on their travels last term.

Recommendation
Athletic Bilbao to win to nil
1pt 7-5 bet365

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Key stat
Athletic have won four of the last six meetings between the sides without conceding a goal.

Barcelona v Betis7.15pm
Barcelona’s Super Cup drubbing against rivals Real Madrid showed they have their work cut out to regain their La Liga title and the exit of Neymar plus the five-week injury to Luis Suarez have done little to help their cause.

However, the Catalans should edge out visiting Betis, who picked up just two points from their 12 La Liga meetings with top-six sides last term.

Recommendation
Barcelona to win by one goal
1pt 10-3 SkyBet

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Key stat
Barcelona have won their last seven home meetings with Real Betis.

Deportivo v Real Madrid9.15pm
Real Madrid haven't conceded a goal in their opening match for the past three seasons and they can start their title defence with victory and a clean sheet at Deportivo.

Los Blancos are favourites to retain their title and there should be little resistance from Pepe Mel's men, who finished just five points clear of the drop zone and failed to notch in 13 of their 38 league encounters last term.

Recommendation
Real Madrid to win to nil
1pt 11-8 SkyBet

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Key stat
Deportivo scored only 43 goals last season.