Barcelona vs Valencia: Preview, Predictions, and Lineups

Barcelona return to La Liga action on Sunday as they welcome relegation-threatened Valencia to Catalonia. While Hansi Flick’s side is chasing Real Madrid in the title race, Valencia looks to climb out of the relegation zone under new manager Carlos Corberan.

Recent Form: Barcelona Seek Consistency

After a thrilling 5-4 victory against Benfica in the Champions League, Barcelona secured their spot in the round of 16. Raphinha’s last-minute winner in Lisbon was a testament to the team’s resilience. However, their recent La Liga form has been less convincing, with a 1-1 draw against Getafe last weekend further widening the gap to league leaders Real Madrid.

Despite twice defeating Real Madrid this season, Barcelona’s inconsistent domestic performances have cost them. Sunday’s match offers a chance to regain momentum in the league.

Valencia’s Revival Under Carlos Corberan

Valencia, historically one of Spain’s elite clubs, has struggled in recent years under poor management by Peter Lim. New boss Carlos Corberan has brought a sense of organization and belief to the squad.

Valencia’s 1-0 win against Real Sociedad last week marked a significant improvement, and while they remain in the relegation zone, their recent performances suggest a team on the rise.

Barcelona Team News

Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny’s poor showing against Benfica means Inaki Pena is expected to start on Sunday. Injuries to Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Inigo Martinez, and Marc Bernal limit Flick’s defensive options. Dani Olmo is also doubtful with a calf issue, but the core of Barcelona’s starting XI is expected to remain unchanged.

Predicted Barcelona Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Pena; Kounde, Araujo, Cubarsi, Balde; Casado, Pedri; Yamal, Gavi, Raphinha; Lewandowski

Valencia Team News

Valencia face a defensive crisis with Cristhian Mosquera suspended and both Mouctar Diakhaby and Thierry Correia sidelined through injury. Youngster Yarek Gasiorowski is likely to step into the backline. Hugo Duro, the match-winner against Real Sociedad, will be Valencia’s key attacking threat.

Predicted Valencia Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Mamardashvili; Foulquier, Tarrega, Gasiorowski, Gaya; Guerra, Barrenechea; Lopez, Almeida, Rioja; Duro

Head-to-Head Record

In their last five meetings, Barcelona have dominated with four wins and one draw. Their most recent clash in August 2024 saw Barca secure a 2-1 comeback victory at Mestalla.

Score Prediction: Can Valencia Pull Off an Upset?

Barcelona’s peak performances this season have been nearly unstoppable, but their defensive vulnerabilities have been exposed too often in recent weeks. Valencia, buoyed by Corberan’s leadership, will make this contest competitive.

While an upset isn’t out of the question, Barcelona’s attacking firepower, led by Lewandowski and Raphinha, should prove decisive. Expect another tightly contested affair.

Prediction: Barcelona 2-1 Valencia

Have Your Say!

What’s your prediction for the match? Can Barcelona rediscover their defensive solidity, or will Valencia continue their resurgence under Corberan? Share your thoughts and score predictions in the comments below!