Athletic Bilbao are brimming with confidence as they prepare to face Rangers in the quarter-finals of the Europa League next month. The Spanish club believes they have a strong chance of making it to the final, which will take place at their home ground, the renovated San Mames stadium.
Bilbao, who are embracing this opportunity, are ensuring their fans are excited about the potential to watch the final in their own stadium. To this end, they have begun issuing vouchers for fans who purchase tickets for the home leg against Rangers, thereby enhancing their chances of securing seats for the prestigious final.
Rangers, who recently knocked out Fenerbahce, a team managed by the revered José Mourinho, will be battling against a La Liga powerhouse when they head to Spain. The match promises to be thrilling, and both teams are eager to progress to the next stage.
The Europa League final has found a home at Athletic Bilbao's San Mames, which boasts a capacity of 52,061 spectators. Originally, the stadium was scheduled to host matches during Euro 2020, but the event was shifted to Seville due to high Covid rates in the Basque region at that time.
Athletic Bilbao is offering incentives particularly geared towards their season ticket holders and club members. According to the club's announcement, they have made it clear that purchasing a ticket for the upcoming quarter-final against Rangers would put fans one step closer to being part of the final, should they advance.
“A member's attendance at the quarter final match increases their chances of winning a ticket in a draw for the Europa League final to be played this season at San Mames,” the club stated. They also noted that “all members will be able to participate in this draw, but each member will have as many entries as they have attended Europa League matches at San Mames, plus an additional entry for being a member.”
This attempt to bolster attendance and engage their fanbase is not just about enjoying a game; it reflects a deeper strategy by Athletic Bilbao to strengthen community ties and ensure that their most loyal supporters are rewarded for their commitment to the club.
On the other hand, Rangers will receive approximately 2,650 tickets for their traveling fans. The Scottish club is keen to make their presence known as they travel to Spain, ensuring that they have a strong backing when facing a formidable opponent.
The anticipation is building as the quarter-final approaches. Both clubs have rich histories and passionate supporters who take pride in their legacies, and this encounter in the Europa League is no exception. With tickets starting at just £15 for the second leg, Athletic Bilbao is making an effort to ensure that as many fans as possible can partake in what is expected to be an unforgettable evening in the Basque country.
This could very well be the moment when Athletic Bilbao's dreams of European glory rest in the hands of their devoted fans supporting them every step of the way. Moreover, as excitement grows, the prospect of hosting the final at their home stadium only adds to the stakes for both teams.
Whether it will be Bilbao or Rangers who emerge victorious in this clash remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the upcoming quarter-final promises to be an enthralling encounter. The backdrop of a European competition with history, drama, and the stakes of reaching the final at a cherished venue makes this matchup even more enticing.
With the teams set to clash soon, all eyes will be on Bilbao's San Mames, where hopes, dreams, and football's unpredictable nature will unfold once again.
