Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simon says tomorrow's clash against Osasuna is a must-win.

Sitting in seventh place, Athletic cannot afford a slip as they target European football.

Simon said, "We need to play with confidence and bravery. We can't play on the back foot and with fear.

"It's the perfect chance to prove we want to get into Europe and we have to take that step. If we play as well as we have done in many of our games this season, maintain our defensive solidity and get it right in the box, we can win.

Simon added: "We got an important win against Celta, but it's not worth anything if we don't beat Osasuna. All that matters is being in the same position the end of the season and Thursday's game is vital if we're to achieve that and get into Europe.

"It makes no difference if you look at the standings. All we have to do is win in Pamplona. There are many teams in the fight and if you don't get points, the rest will catch up. It's in our hands and we have to win

"The older players tell us what it's like to play in Europe, but the youngsters are less aware of what it brings to the Club. "We have to recognise how crucial it is so we can achieve it."

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Mavs get good news on Maxi Kleber ahead of Game 4
Patriots exec discusses team's approach to QB competition
Braves to promote No. 3 prospect for MLB debut Wednesday
Diamondbacks release veteran infielder
Packers' former first-round pick planning to make 'monster leap'
NFLPA finalizing proposal for major change to offseason schedule
LeBron James shouts out Jaylen Brown after Celtics advance to NBA Finals
Pacers collapse down the stretch as Celtics sweep ECF
Hall of Famer, beloved broadcaster Bill Walton dead at 71
Jason Robertson leads Stars to comeback win over Oilers in Game 3
Despite recent form, Rafael Nadal's legacy is still gold standard for tennis
Bengals coach offers significant injury update on QB Joe Burrow
MLB officials expect automated ball-strike system to be implemented in 2026
Vikings reportedly considered Justin Jefferson trade during NFL Draft
A matured Kyrie Irving is finally proving to be the star we all knew he could be
Insider: Sixers 'a threat' to sign LeBron James in free agency
Week 14 NASCAR rankings: Larson's no-show shakes up the running order
Three hitters Braves should target after losing Ronald Acuna Jr.
Shohei Ohtani shares major update on his pitching rehab
Status of Pacers' Tyrese Haliburton revealed for Game 4 of ECF

Want more sports news?

Join the hundreds of thousands of fans who start their day with Yardbarker's Morning Bark, the best newsletter in sports.