The upcoming La Liga clash between Almeria and Barcelona promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Scheduled for May 16, 2024, at the Estadio de los Juegos Mediterraneos, this match pits the league's basement side against the Catalan giants.
Match Preview
Barcelona
Barcelona enters this fixture aiming to secure second place in the league, following a convincing 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad.
The team has been in good form, winning five consecutive home games and climbing to second place, one point ahead of Girona.
Despite losing the La Liga title to Real Madrid, Barcelona's focus remains on finishing strong and securing a spot in next season's Spanish Super Cup.
Almeria
Almeria, on the other hand, has had a challenging season.
Their relegation was confirmed after a 3-1 defeat to Getafe, marking their 22nd loss in 35 matches.
They have conceded a league-high 70 goals, highlighting their defensive struggles. Despite these setbacks, Almeria showed resilience in a recent narrow 3-2 loss to Real Betis, indicating they can still pose a threat.
Team News
Almeria
For Almeria, Iddrisu Baba is doubtful due to an injury, while Largie Ramazani is serving the fourth game of a five-match ban.
Aleksandar Radovanovic may return after resuming training, and Cesar Montes is expected to start in central defence after serving a suspension.
Barcelona
Barcelona will be without Gavi and Frenkie de Jong due to knee and ankle injuries, respectively. Ronald Araujo is also a doubt.
Alejandro Balde remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, and Ilkay Gundogan will serve a one-match suspension.
However, Fermin Lopez could start, and Robert Lewandowski will look to close the gap in the Pichichi race.
Predicted Lineups
Almeria: Maximiano; Pubill, Montes, Chumi, Langa; Edgar, Robertone; Romero, Viera, Embarba; Lozano.
Barcelona: Ter Stegen; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Fort; Pedri, Christensen, Fermin; Torres, Felix, Lewandowski.
Prediction
Given Barcelona's superior form and Almeria's defensive woes, the Catalan club is expected to secure a routine win.
While Almeria may find the net, Barcelona's attacking prowess should see them triumph comfortably.
Our Prediction: Almeria 1-3 Barcelona
FAQ
Q: When and where is the Almeria vs Barcelona match taking place? A: Almeria vs Barcelona match is scheduled for May 16, 2024, at the Estadio de los Juegos Mediterraneos.
Q: What is the current form of Barcelona ahead of the match? A: Barcelona is in good form, having won five consecutive home league games and securing a 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad in their last match.
Q: How has Almeria been performing this season? A: Almeria has struggled this season, with their relegation confirmed after a 3-1 defeat to Getafe. They have lost 22 of their 35 league games and have the worst defensive record in La Liga, conceding 70 goals.
Q: What are the key team news updates for Almeria? A: Almeria midfielder Iddrisu Baba is doubtful due to injury, and Largie Ramazani is serving a suspension. Aleksandar Radovanovic might return after resuming training, and Cesar Montes is expected to start after serving a one-match suspension.
Q: What are the key team news updates for Barcelona? A: Barcelona will be without Gavi and Frenkie de Jong due to injuries, and Ronald Araujo is also doubtful. Alejandro Balde remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, and Ilkay Gundogan will serve a suspension. Fermin Lopez could start in midfield.
