OURENSE, Spain (Interstat) — A place in the next round of Spain’s prestigious youth tournament is on the line Thursday when Ourense hosts AC Bilbao W in a Copa del Rey Juvenil knockout match.

The fixture, set for Dec. 18, 2025, pits a surging Ourense side against a Bilbao team seeking consistency.

Ourense enters with significant momentum, having won three consecutive matches by a combined score of 11-2. Their most recent result was a 2-1 home victory over Girona on Dec. 3. Earlier wins include a 4-2 triumph over Real Oviedo and a 5-1 rout of Laredo, showcasing a potent attack.

In contrast, AC Bilbao W is coming off a 1-1 home draw with Espanyol W on Sept. 21. That result, their last recorded match, highlights a potential challenge in converting performances into wins.

According to the Interstat game simulator, Ourense is projected to advance with a narrow 1-0 victory. The model likely factors in Ourense’s current form and home-field advantage.

For the visitors, this cup match offers a chance to build rhythm before a daunting schedule in the new year. Bilbao’s next confirmed match is a major test: an ESP Super Cup clash at Barcelona on Jan. 7, 2026.

The Copa del Rey Juvenil is a critical platform for Spain’s top youth talents, and the knockout format ensures a high-stakes atmosphere. Ourense will look to leverage its explosive offense and home support to control the match. Bilbao’s focus will be on organization and exploiting any counter-attacking opportunities to silence the local crowd.

A win for Ourense would extend their impressive run and solidify their status as a dangerous cup opponent. For Bilbao, a positive result would provide a crucial confidence boost ahead of their upcoming heavyweight fixture against Barcelona.

Kickoff is scheduled for Thursday at Ourense’s home ground.