Barcelona vs Almeria predictions for Wednesday’s La Liga clash. Barcelona aims to end 2023 on a high note as they host struggling Almeria on Wednesday, following three winless competitive matches. Read on for our free match preview and betting tips.
La Liga | Gameweek 18 – Dec 20, 2023 at 6pm UK at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys
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Barcelona vs Almeria Predictions
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Barcelona vs Almeria: A Battle of Contrasts and Surprising Outcomes
Key Stats
– Almeria has conceded 39 goals in 17 matches, the worst defensive record in La Liga.
– Both teams have scored in six of Barcelona’s last seven matches in all competitions.
Barcelona, the Catalan giants, find themselves in an unfamiliar position of vulnerability as they prepare to face Almeria. Despite their illustrious history and a squad teeming with talent, Barcelona’s recent form has been anything but stable. The team, under the guidance of Xavi, has failed to secure a win in their last three competitive matches, a fact that has raised concerns about their ability to defend their La Liga title. The absence of key players like Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Inigo Martinez, Marcos Alonso, and Gavi due to injuries, and the suspension of Frenkie de Jong, only adds to their woes.
The Blaugrana’s attacking prowess, led by the likes of Joao Felix, Raphinha, and veteran Robert Lewandowski, remains a threat. However, their defensive fragility has been exposed, with the team conceding in five of their last six home games across all competitions. This weakness could be exploited by an Almeria side desperate for points.
Almeria’s Struggle for Survival
Almeria’s journey this season paints a starkly different picture. Rooted at the bottom of the La Liga table, they are yet to secure a win. Gaizka Garitano, who took over in October, has a monumental task at hand. Despite a defense that has shown resilience in recent matches, as evidenced by consecutive clean sheets against Mallorca and Real Betis, their attacking output has been lackluster. Almeria’s away form is particularly concerning, with seven consecutive losses in their travels. However, their previous 1-0 victory over Barcelona offers a glimmer of hope and a reminder of their potential to cause upsets.
Decisive Factors and Key Battles
The midfield battle, particularly between Barcelona’s creative force Pedri and Almeria’s defensive midfielders, will be crucial. The game’s tempo and control will hinge on this area. Key individual duels, such as the one between Barcelona’s winger Raphinha and Almeria’s left-back, will also be pivotal in determining the game’s outcome.
Managerial Analysis
Xavi, despite his footballing intellect, has struggled to translate his vision into consistent performances. His reliance on a possession-based game has been questioned, especially in matches where quick transitions are needed. On the other hand, Gaizka Garitano’s defensive approach has been criticised for being overly cautious, potentially stifling Almeria’s attacking capabilities.
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Team Lineups and Tactical Approaches
Barcelona’s Starting lineup is: Pena; Cancelo, Araujo, Kounde, Balde; Gundogan, Romeu, Pedri; Raphinha, Felix, Lewandowski.
Almeria’s Starting Lineup: Maximiano; Montes, Gonzalez, Chumi; Pozo, Lopy, Baba, Akieme; Arribas, Embarba, Baptistao.
Barcelona, with their expected lineup, will likely focus on maintaining possession and creating chances through the wings. Almeria, on the other hand, will probably adopt a more conservative approach, aiming to exploit any counter-attacking opportunities.
Concluding Thoughts
The match between Barcelona and Almeria presents a clash of desperation and determination. Barcelona, seeking to regain their dominant form, will face an Almeria side fighting for survival. This game could potentially offer a turning point for either team, with Barcelona aiming to reclaim their position at the top and Almeria striving to escape the relegation zone.
Predictions and Insights
1. Both Teams to Score and Win:
Given Barcelona’s attacking quality and Almeria’s defensive vulnerabilities, a Barcelona win with both teams scoring is a likely outcome. Almeria’s recent scoring form, especially in away games, combined with Barcelona’s defensive gaps, supports this prediction.
2. Correct Score Prediction:
A 3-1 victory for Barcelona seems plausible. Barcelona’s need to bounce back and their home advantage, coupled with Almeria’s struggle to keep clean sheets, point towards a high-scoring affair with Barcelona having the upper hand.
3. Goalscorer Prediction:
Robert Lewandowski, with his exceptional goal-scoring record, is a likely candidate to find the net. His positioning and finishing abilities make him a constant threat.
4. Corner Prediction:
Expect Barcelona to dominate in corners, with an estimated total of over 10 corners for the match. Barcelona’s attacking style and Almeria’s defensive approach will likely result in a higher number of corners for the hosts.
Our Best bets
The first prediction of both teams scoring, with Barcelona winning, is underpinned by Barcelona’s attacking prowess, spearheaded by Lewandowski and Felix, and Almeria’s improved but still vulnerable defence. The correct score prediction of 3-1 in favour of Barcelona aligns with the expected dynamic of the game, where Barcelona’s urgency to regain form will clash with Almeria’s desperate attempt for survival.
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