Barcelona shall be seeking to recuperate from a latest setback within the Champions League as they return to La Liga motion at dwelling in opposition to Alaves on Sunday. Xavi’s crew suffered a 1-0 loss to Shakhtar Donetsk in Europe, whereas Alaves secured a 1-0 victory over Almeria of their latest league outing.
Match Preview
Barcelona missed a possibility to safe a spot within the Champions League knockout stage after their defeat to Shakhtar.
The crew at present leads Group H however faces stiff competitors from Porto and Shakhtar, making their place within the spherical of 16 unsure.
Regardless of a latest loss to Actual Madrid, Barcelona has proven energy within the league with 8 wins, 3 attracts, and 1 defeat in 12 matches, sitting in third place.
The upcoming matches in opposition to Atletico Madrid and Girona make a win essential for Barcelona, particularly after a subpar efficiency described by Xavi as “one of the worst games” since he took over as head coach.
Alaves enters the match on the again of consecutive wins, positioning them 14th within the desk with 12 factors from 12 video games.
Having been promoted to La Liga, the crew goals to solidify their place within the league. Whereas defensively sturdy, Alaves struggles in scoring, sharing the bottom purpose tally within the division with 10 objectives.
Group Information
Barcelona shall be lacking Gavi resulting from suspension and Sergi Roberto resulting from a calf harm, whereas Frenkie de Jong continues to recuperate from an ankle drawback.
Alternatively, Alaves shall be with out Sedlar, Benavidez, and Simeone resulting from accidents.
Possible Lineups
Barcelona:
- Ter Stegen;
- Cancelo, Araujo, Kounde, Balde;
- Gundogan, Romeu, Fermin;
- Raphinha, Lewandowski, Felix
Alaves:
- Sivera;
- Gorosabel, Abqar, Marin, J Lopez;
- Blanco, Guevara;
- Hagi, Guridi, Rioja;
- Kike Garcia
Prediction
Alaves has a historical past of constructive outcomes in opposition to Barcelona, however Xavi’s aspect is predicted to rebound from their latest disappointment and safe a 2-0 victory.