Celta Vigo are set to host league leaders Barcelona at the Estadio de Balaídos in a highly anticipated La Liga clash on Saturday night.
Barcelona, coming off a surprising defeat at the hands of Real Sociedad, will look to regain their dominant form, while Celta aim to capitalise on their recent strong performances and climb the league standings.
Celta Vigo Recent Form
Celta Vigo have experienced an up-and-down campaign so far, recording five wins, two draws, and six losses in their 13 La Liga matches.
The side have shown promise in attack, scoring 20 goals, but their defensive frailties have been exposed, conceding 22 goals.
They remain unbeaten in their last three outings, including a 2-2 draw against Real Betis in their most recent game and a narrow 1-0 victory over Getafe at home.
Injury and Team News
Celta remain without key players Luca de la Torre, Jailson, and Sergio Carreira due to injury concerns.
However, no fresh issues have been reported, and coach Claudio Giráldez is expected to field a competitive lineup. Javier Manquillo may replace Mihailo Ristic in defence for added solidity.
Last Celta Vigo Lineup
Here is how Celta lined up in their last match against Real Betis:
Barcelona Recent Form
Barcelona remain at the top of the La Liga table with 33 points, thanks to 11 wins from 13 matches. However, their surprise 1-0 loss to Real Sociedad snapped an impressive seven-game winning streak.
The Catalan giants have the best away record in the league, with six wins in eight games, and will aim to assert their dominance against Celta.
Injury and Team News
Barcelona have been hampered by injuries, with Ansu Fati, Lamine Yamal, Eric Garcia, Marc-André ter Stegen, Marc Bernal, Andreas Christensen, and Ronald Araújo all sidelined.
On the brighter side, Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres have returned to training, bolstering the attack.
Dani Olmo is expected to start, but Gavi might be eased back into action following his recovery.
Last Barcelona Lineup
Barcelona’s probable lineup against Real Sociedad:
Celta Vigo Player to Watch
Iago Aspas remains pivotal for Celta Vigo. The experienced forward, with four goals and three assists in 12 appearances this season, is just one goal shy of Lionel Messi’s all-time tally in this fixture.
Barcelona Player to Watch
Robert Lewandowski’s return is a major boost for Barcelona. Despite missing recent international fixtures, the Polish striker will lead the attack, aiming to add to his tally in a crucial away fixture.
Prediction
Celta’s strong home form and attacking flair could challenge Barcelona, but the Catalans’ superior away record and tactical depth should prevail.
Our Prediction: Celta Vigo 1-2 Barcelona
Betting Tips
Tip 1: Both Teams to Score
Celta’s attacking potential, combined with Barcelona’s defensive absences, makes a high-scoring encounter likely.
Tip 2: Barcelona to Win
The league leaders are favourites, given their consistent away performances this season.
Tip 3: Robert Lewandowski Anytime Goalscorer
With his clinical finishing and the need to bounce back after injury, Lewandowski is a solid pick for a goal.
