Date: January 26, 2025
Kick-off: 20:00 (GMT)
Venue: Camp Nou, Barcelona
Match Preview:
Barcelona are looking to get their La Liga title charge back on track when they host Valencia at the Camp Nou this Sunday. The Catalans have had a frustrating run of form in the league, with four straight matches without a win, including a 1-1 draw at Getafe in their last outing. As a result, they’ve dropped to third in the table, seven points behind Real Madrid.
However, Barcelona have been excellent in cup competitions, winning four of their last five matches in all competitions. This includes a stunning 5-2 victory over Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup and a thrilling 5-4 win over Benfica in the UEFA Champions League. Barcelona will need to channel their cup form into the league to maintain their title push.
On the other hand, Valencia have shown signs of improvement, going unbeaten in their last five matches in all competitions. They climbed out of the relegation zone with a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad in their previous La Liga match. Although Valencia have been struggling this season, their recent form is encouraging, but they have yet to win away from home in the league, losing six of their last ten matches on the road.
How the Bookies View It
Barcelona are overwhelming favorites for this fixture, priced at 1/5 with BoyleSports to secure the win. An unlikely victory for Valencia is priced at 9/1, with a draw available at 5/1.
Head-to-Head
Barcelona have dominated the historical meetings with Valencia, winning 39 of the 72 matches between the two teams, with 18 draws. In their last two encounters, Barcelona have won both, including a 2-1 win in the reverse fixture back in August.
Players to Watch
- Raphinha (Barcelona): The Brazilian winger has been in excellent form, scoring five goals in his last four matches across all competitions. He will be a key player for Barcelona as they look to break down Valencia’s defense. He is priced at 21/20 by BoyleSports to score anytime.
- Hugo Duro (Valencia): Duro has been a crucial part of Valencia’s attack, scoring in two of their last three La Liga matches. With six goals in the league this season, he will be vital in Valencia’s attempt to cause an upset. Duro is priced at 10/3 by BoyleSports to score anytime.
Probable Line-Ups
Barcelona: Szczesny; Kounde, Araujo, Cubarsi, Balde; de Jong, Pedri, Yamal, Gavi; Raphinha, Lewandowski
Valencia: Mamardashvili; Gaya, Guillamon, Tarrega, Foulquier; Barrenechea, Guerra, Pepelu, Perez, Almeida; Duro
Anything Else to Consider?
- Goals Galore: There have been over 3.5 goals in three of Barcelona’s last four matches in all competitions. Given the attacking strength of both teams, this match could also see a high-scoring outcome. Over 3.5 goals is priced at 57/50 by BoyleSports.
- Both Teams to Score: Both teams have found the net in their last three meetings. Given Valencia’s improved form and Barcelona’s tendency to concede, both teams to score is priced at 5/6 by BoyleSports and looks promising.
- Win and Both Teams to Score: As Barcelona are likely to win but concede, a win and both teams to score offers more value at 8/5 with BoyleSports.
Prediction
Barcelona should be too strong for Valencia at Camp Nou, but the visitors are likely to find the back of the net given Barcelona’s recent defensive vulnerabilities. This should be a comfortable home win for Barcelona, though not without a few nervy moments.
Final Score Prediction: Barcelona 3-1 Valencia
Betting Tips
- Barcelona to win (1/5)
- Over 3.5 goals (57/50)
- Both teams to score (5/6)
- Raphinha to score anytime (21/20)
- Hugo Duro to score anytime (10/3)
- Barcelona to win and both teams to score (8/5)
This La Liga match between Barcelona and Valencia will be played on January 26, 2025, with kick-off at 20:00 (GMT). Be sure to check the latest odds and updates before placing your bets!