Barcelona welcome relegation-threatened Valencia to Catalonia on Sunday night as they aim to close the gap in the La Liga title race. Despite a thrilling midweek Champions League win over Benfica, Hansi Flick’s side has struggled to maintain consistency in domestic competition. Valencia, under the guidance of Carlos Corberan, have shown signs of improvement and will look to cause an upset at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.
Match Details
- Location: Barcelona, Spain
- Stadium: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys
- Date: Sunday, January 21, 2025
- Kick-off: 20:00 GMT / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
- Referee: Cesar Soto Grado
- VAR: Carlos del Cerro Grande
Recent Form
Barcelona (Last 5 Matches in All Competitions):
- Win: Benfica 4-5 Barcelona (21/01/25)
- Draw: Getafe 1-1 Barcelona (18/01/25)
- Win: Barcelona 5-1 Real Betis (15/01/25)
- Win: Real Madrid 2-5 Barcelona (12/01/25)
- Win: Athletic Club 0-2 Barcelona (08/01/25)
Valencia (Last 5 Matches in All Competitions):
- Win: Valencia 1-0 Real Sociedad (19/01/25)
- Win: Ourense 0-2 Valencia (14/01/25)
- Draw: Sevilla 1-1 Valencia (11/01/25)
- Win: Eldense 0-2 Valencia (07/01/25)
- Loss: Valencia 1-2 Real Madrid (03/01/25)
Team News
Barcelona:
- Out: Marc-André ter Stegen (injury), Iñigo Martínez (injury), Marc Bernal (injury).
- Doubtful: Dani Olmo (calf issue).
- Key Changes: Wojciech Szczesny’s underwhelming display midweek may see Iñaki Peña start in goal. Hansi Flick is expected to field a strong lineup with minimal rotation, saving squad depth for next week’s Champions League match against Atalanta.
Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Peña; Koundé, Araújo, Cubarsí, Balde; Casado, Pedri; Yamal, Gavi, Raphinha; Lewandowski.
Valencia:
- Out: Cristhian Mosquera (suspension), Mouctar Diakhaby (injury), Thierry Correia (injury).
- Key Changes: Youngster Yarek Gasiorowski is expected to deputize for Mosquera at center-back. Hugo Duro remains the focal point in attack after his match-winning goal against Real Sociedad.
Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Mamardashvili; Foulquier, Tárrega, Gasiorowski, Gayà; Guerra, Barrenechea; López, Almeida, Rioja; Duro.
Head-to-Head Record (Last 5 Matches):
- Barcelona Wins: 4
- Valencia Wins: 0
- Draws: 1
Last Meeting: Valencia 1-2 Barcelona (17 August 2024, La Liga).
Score Prediction
Barcelona’s explosive attack, led by Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, has been their saving grace this season. However, their defensive frailties have left them vulnerable, allowing opponents to exploit gaps. Valencia, revitalized under Corberan, will aim to frustrate the hosts and capitalize on any defensive lapses.
While Valencia will make this a competitive game, Barcelona’s superior firepower should see them edge past their visitors. Expect a hard-fought victory for the Catalans.
Prediction: Barcelona 2-1 Valencia
Key Players to Watch
- Barcelona:
- Robert Lewandowski: The Polish striker remains Barcelona’s primary goal threat.
- Raphinha: Scored the dramatic winner midweek and will look to build on his form.
- Pedri: The midfield maestro is crucial for controlling the game.
- Valencia:
- Hugo Duro: Valencia’s primary attacking outlet and match-winner against Real Sociedad.
- José Gayà: The captain’s leadership and defensive solidity will be vital.
- Giorgi Mamardashvili: Valencia’s shot-stopper will need to be at his best.
Barcelona must capitalize on this opportunity to keep pace in the title race, while Valencia will aim to spring a surprise and boost their survival hopes.
