Barcelona vs Real Madrid Prediction and Football Tips

La Liga football tips – Barcelona vs Real Madrid prediction

The return of Dani Alves and Jordi Alba from suspension will be a big boost for Barcelona manager Luis Enrique. The only definite absentee from the squad is defender Thomas Vermaelen while Sergio Busquets remains doubtful, which means Javier Mascherano could continue in his favoured central midfield role.

Carlo Ancelotti only has one real injury concern and that’s the continued absence of James Rodriguez, otherwise, the Real Madrid boss has a fully fit squad to choose from. The return to fitness of Luka Modric, could not have come at a better time and the Croatian will partner Toni Kroos and Isco in the midfield. Gareth Bale will keep his place in the team, having netted twice against Levante.

• Over the course of their previous 10 matches, Barcelona have scored an average of 3 goals and conceded an average of 0.8 goal per game.
• Over the course of their previous 10 matches, Real Madrid have scored an average of 1.8 goals and conceded an average of 1.2 goals per game.
• There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 7 of Barcelona’s previous 10 matches
• There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 4 of Real Madrid’s previous 10 matches.
• Barcelona have scored at least 2 goals in 31 of their last 35 home matches in La Liga.

Barcelona come in to this match, having won 17 of their last 18 matches in all competitions, making them easily the form team going in to the Clasico. Barcelona have a point to prove, having lost to their huge rivals 3-1 earlier in the season, after taking the lead in that game. Barcelona’s forward line are high on confidence, with Messi putting in a performance that had the world purring on Wednesday night. It’s unlikely that Real Madrid will be able to keep them out.

Real Madrid put 2 defeats in a row behind them, as they defeated Levante at home 2-0 last weekend. This was also the first time, that they kept a clean sheet in 4 matches and Ancelotti’s men have won only 2 of their last 5 matches. It’s a record that mirrors their performances, which have been below that expected of the team. However, a win in this match will end what has been a poor run of results for Real Madrid and propel them to the top of La Liga.

With just 1 point separating the teams at the top of La Liga, there is plenty riding on the second Clasico of the season. With the world’s best attacking talent on show, goals are guaranteed and there has not been a 0-0 between these teams for 13 years. Considering the form of the two teams and their key players, Messi and Ronaldo, expect a Barcelona win.

Barcelona win and both teams to score at 13/8 with Bet365

What are your predictions and football tips?