FC Barcelona eyes to end 2023 with a win over a struggling UD Almeria in La Liga, with both teams aiming to improve their place in the league table. Barcelona are currently at the fourth of the league table with 35 points across their names. However, Barcelona are hoping to reach the top three of the league table with a win in this match. Meanwhile, Almeria is at the bottom of the league table, as they only have five points in their campaign. Moreover, Almeria are now desperate to earn wins, as they want to at least escape the drop zone of the league table. These two teams already played 16 matches across all contests, with Barcelona having an advantage. The meeting between these two teams is on December 21, 2023, at 2:00 AM (GMT+8).
FC Barcelona
Barcelona is currently in third place in the league table. They are seven points behind the top, and facing a midweek match against Almeria. The Blaugrana had hoped to secure maximum points with Joao Felix’s third league goal, but were held to a draw in their last match. Their lack of consistency is affecting their chances of retaining the title they won last year. Xavi is under pressure to spark an upturn in fortunes, as they have won all seven of their home matches against Almeria. From there, they kept five clean sheets. The team would also appreciate another shutout on Wednesday, as they have conceded in five of their last six home games across all competitions. The team’s lack of consistency is a significant concern for their chances of retaining the title.
Barcelona is without injured players like Stegen, Martinez, Alonso, and Gavi, and De Jong will serve a one-match suspension. Romeu is expected to feature in midfield, while Felix and Raphinha will support Robert Lewandowski.
UD Almeria
Almeria struggled to win any of their 17 league matches in the first half of the season. They are set to face the champions in a crucial match against Mallorca. The team, led by new manager Gaizka Garitano, secured their fifth point of the season with a goalless draw with Mallorca. Almeria, have the worst defensive record in La Liga. They need to start picking up victories to close the eight-point gap to safety. They face a dismal away run, losing each of their last seven matches since a 1-1 draw with Cadiz in August. Despite their poor away form, Almeria will have fond memories of their recent win over Barcelona in February, a 1-0 scoreline at the Power Horse Stadium.
Almeria have an injury list including Milovanovic, Kone, Pubill, Svidersky, and Suarez. Robertone is out due to shoulder issues, while Melero is doubtful due to a muscle problem.
Prediction:
FC Barcelona (2.5)
Odds: -0.95
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