Celta Vigo vs Barcelona: Preview, Prediction & Lineups

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La Liga leaders Barcelona will look to recover from their shock defeat to Real Sociedad as they travel to face Celta Vigo at the Balaídos on Saturday. With both teams having contrasting objectives this season, the clash promises to be an intriguing battle of tactics and resilience.

Barcelona’s Redemption Quest

Despite a blistering start to the season, Hansi Flick’s Barcelona suffered a setback before the international break, losing 1-0 to Real Sociedad. The Blaugrana remain atop the standings with 33 points from 13 matches, boasting the league’s most prolific attack with 40 goals scored.

Barcelona will aim to rectify their recent slip-up and reinforce their position at the summit of La Liga. Despite being plagued by injuries to key players, the Catalan giants have enough depth and quality to pose a significant threat to Celta Vigo.

Celta Vigo’s Mixed Campaign

Currently 11th in the standings, Celta Vigo have had an inconsistent start to their season. With 17 points from 13 matches, the Galicians have shown glimpses of promise, particularly in their recent unbeaten run of three matches, including a thrilling 2-2 draw against Real Betis.

Against a dominant Barcelona side, Celta will look to capitalize on their home advantage and defensive discipline to pull off an upset.

Team News & Probable Lineups

Celta Vigo

Celta are dealing with injuries to Luca de la Torre, Jailson, and Sergio Carreira, though their core team remains intact. Manager Rafael Benitez will likely stick with his 3-4-3 formation, aiming to frustrate Barcelona with compact defending and quick transitions.

Probable Lineup (3-4-3):
Guaita; Javi Rodriguez, Starfelt, Alonso; Mingueza, Sotelo, Beltran, Manquillo; Bamba, Iglesias, Aspas

Veteran striker Iago Aspas will be key to Celta’s attacking aspirations, alongside the pace of Jonathan Bamba.

Barcelona

Barcelona’s injury list includes Lamine Yamal, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Andreas Christensen, and Ronald Araujo, leaving Flick with limited options. However, the return of Ferran Torres and a fully fit Robert Lewandowski provides a timely boost.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Pena; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde; Casado, De Jong; Olmo, Pedri, Raphinha; Lewandowski

With Dani Olmo and Pedri pulling the strings in midfield, Barcelona’s attack will look to overwhelm Celta’s defense.

Key Stats

Barcelona have won 66 of 116 matches against Celta Vigo, while the hosts have managed only 23 victories.
Celta Vigo have lost just two of their last nine home games against Barcelona in La Liga.
The Catalan giants were on a seven-match winning streak before their defeat to Real Sociedad.
Barcelona have conceded more away defeats at Balaídos (7) than at any stadium other than the Santiago Bernabéu.

Player to Watch: Dani Olmo

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The Spanish playmaker has been a revelation for Barcelona, tallying five goals in six La Liga appearances this season. His vision, movement, and ability to link up with Lewandowski make him a pivotal figure in breaking down Celta’s resilient backline.