Celta Vigo will host Valencia at the Estadio de Balaídos in a thrilling La Liga clash on Friday night. Both teams will be looking to secure vital points as they navigate the early stages of the 2024-25 season.
While Celta Vigo started their campaign with a win, Valencia will aim to bounce back from a defeat against Barcelona.
Match Preview
Celta Vigo
Celta Vigo Recent Form
Celta Vigo began their La Liga campaign on a high note, coming from behind to secure a 2-1 victory over Alaves.
This win puts them in a positive position as they aim for their first top-half finish since the 2020-21 season.
Celta Vigo Injury News
Celta Vigo may have some injury concerns, with Luca de la Torre and Vicente Guaita being doubtful for this match. However, key players like Iago Aspas, who scored in the previous game, are expected to feature prominently.
Valencia
Valencia Recent Form
Valencia suffered a 2-1 defeat to Barcelona in their season opener, despite taking the lead through Hugo Duro.
The team will be eager to improve on their previous season's 16th and 9th-place finishes and avoid a second consecutive loss.
Valencia Injury News
Valencia has a few injury concerns, with Sergi Canos, Jose Gaya, Jaume Domenech, Fran Perez, and Mouctar Diakhaby all unavailable due to fitness issues. Despite these setbacks, coach Ruben Baraja might stick with a similar lineup to the one that faced Barcelona.
Players To Watch
Celta Vigo Player To Watch
Iago Aspas - The veteran forward remains a key figure for Celta Vigo, having scored in the season opener. His experience and goal-scoring ability will be crucial for the home side.
Valencia Player To Watch
Hugo Duro - After netting the opener against Barcelona, Duro will be Valencia’s main attacking threat. His performance will be vital if Valencia hopes to secure a positive result.
Prediction
Given that both of last season’s encounters ended in draws, another tight match could be on the cards.
Our Prediction: Celta Vigo 1-1 Valencia
Betting Angles
Both Teams to Score
Given that both teams have found the net in their recent matches and considering their defensive vulnerabilities, betting on both teams to score could be a good option.
Draw
With both of last season’s La Liga meetings ending in draws and the evenly matched nature of these sides, betting on a draw might be a smart choice.
Under 2.5 Goals
Valencia's recent form, especially away from home, suggests a low-scoring game. Coupled with Celta's moderate goal output at home, this could be a solid bet.
