Valencia vs Barcelona
Spanish La Liga
Date: Saturday, 22nd October 2016,
Kick-off: 15:15 UK.
Venue: Estadio de Mestalla, Valencia
Match Preview and Team News
Lionel Messi delivered one of the best nights in his career as he put a good Manchester City side in the sword with mesmerizing all-around performance. The La Pulga hit a brilliant hat-trick, and his striking partner Neymar added a fourth ensuring a dominating win for Barcelona.
But all was not good for Barcelona in the game as it lost two of its stalwarts, Gerard Pique and Jordi Alba, due to respective injuries. Both of the Spanish duos are not expected to make it back in time to face Valencia.
Right-back Sergi Roberto was left out against City but should be back fit and ready to start against the Los Che.
As he has done often this season, Luis Enrique could rotate his midfield, with Andre Gomes or Rafinha making their place in the starting lineup.
Meanwhile, Valencia won its match against Sporting Gijon in its last game thanks to a brace from Mario Suarez.
New signing Nani should be physically well to start on the attack, with Rodrigo expected to lead the line for Cesare Prandelli’s men.
Key Facts
Valencia has 3 wins in their first 8 league games. The bats have also recorded one win in their first 4 games at home, suffering defeat in the remaining 3.
Barcelona currently enjoys 2 consecutive wins, scoring 8 goals and conceding in those 2 encounters. The Catalan has lost 2 of the first 8 games this season, and once in their 4 away games played so far.
Valencia vs Barcelona: Head-to-Head Stats
Valencia enjoyed a 3-2 aggregate score over Barcelona in the two legged La Liga fixture last season. The bats played a goalless draw at the Mestalla and got a priceless 2-1 win in the return leg at Nou Camp. But Valencia were thoroughly thrashed 7-0 when they visited Camp Nou for the Copa Del Rey fixture the same year.
However, Barcelona have won 5 of their last 10 meetings with Valencia, while they lost 2 and drew 3. While Valencia have drawn 3 of their last four home matches against Barcelona, losing once.
Valencia vs Barcelona: Prediction
Valencia are coming on the back of consecutive defeats and things hardly look good at the club’s board room. They did manage to hold Barcelona to draws at home in three on the last four encounters under similar circumstances. But the current scoring form of Blaugrana is fearsome and they look good to inflict another heavy defeat on Valencia.
Valencia vs Barcelona: Betting Tips
Barcelona to win with Handicap -2 at 3.40 (12/5).
