Celta Vigo vs Barcelona Prediction and Preview – 23/09/15
La Liga preview – Celta Vigo Vs Barcelona prediction
The high-flying hosts will be without Jinny who is suspended after picking two yellow cards last time out. Carles Planas will replace him at left-back. Ruben Blanco continues to be out with injury while there are doubts over the availability of Pablo Hernandez. But, Eduardo Berizzo is unlikely to tinker much with the winning formula.
For the visitors, Luis Enrique rotated his squad in the weekend to ensure his big guns stay fresh for this crucial tie. Luis Suarez and Andres Iniesta should slot right back into the team. Also, Gerard Pique is available for selection after a four-match ban. He should come straight back into the starting XI.
Possible Line-ups
Celta Vigo: 4-3-3 formation: Alvarez; Planas, Fontas, Cabral, Mallo; Wass, Fernandez, Hernandez; Nolito, Aspas, Orellana
Barcelona: 4-3-3 formation: ter Stegen; Alba, Pique, Mascherano, Alves; Rakitic, Busquets, Iniesta; Neymar, Messi, Suarez
Statistics
- Celta Vigo scored at least 3 goals in their last 3 home matches in La Liga
- Barcelona have won 11 of their last 12 away matches in La Liga
- Celta Vigo are undefeated in their last 9 matches in La Liga
- Barcelona have won 8 of their last 10 matches against Celta Vigo in all competitions
- Barcelona have been drawing at half time and winning at full time in 6 of their last 7 matches in La Liga
Prediction
The hosts are the surprise package of the season so far with 3 wins and 1 draw from the first 4 games. In the last round they surprised Sevilla away from home 2-1 to send a warning to all other teams. The only aberration was a 3-3 home draw against Las Palmas where they threw away a comfortable lead.
Barcelona have won all their opening four La Liga matches although with contrasting styles. Luis Enrique returns to his old club and should know everything about the ground. He juggled his squad wisely to keep everyone fresh for this game. Messi continues to be the pivot while Neymar and Rakitic will be equally hard to contain.
Celta Vigo is turning out to be the dark horses of this campaign but Barcelona will have enough reserves to brush aside the challenge. Expect Messi & co to win three points.
Tips
Messi to score anytime at 8/13 – Click here to bet with Bet365
Barcelona to win with 2 goal margin at 7/2 – Click here to bet with Bet365
Barcelona draw/win: half time/ full time at 10/3 – Click here to bet with Bet365
What are your predictions?
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