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Team News & Analysis

There were doubles for Alexis Sanchez and David Villa on Thursday in Barca’s 5-0 win over Cordoba. Yet, the two forwards could miss the challenge against Los Boquerones for fitness reasons. Following the full availability of newly-crowned Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Pedro – who were all absent in the Copa del Rey this week – the manager is expected to rearrange his front again.

The return of these superstars in Vilanova’s team should alleviate concerns caused by the absence of Sergi Roberto. The central midfielder is expected to miss four weeks of action after picking up a hamstring injury against Cordoba.

For hosts Malaga, the worries are not too many either. Still, Julio Baptista is anticipated to be rested again due to his physical condition not being ideal. Diego Buonanotte could start from the bench after slightly damaging his right-foot against Eibar on Tuesday. Defender Jesus Gamez has already been ruled out, considering that he is suspended.

Facts

- Malaga have conceded fewer goals (13) than any other team in the ongoing Spanish League campaign this season.

- Malaga occupy the fourth position in La Liga table – just 5 points behind Real Madrid but 21 points behind leaders Barca.

- Barcelona have won 17 games and drawn once so far in La Liga. The only time they lost points was in their encounter against Real Madrid on October 7 last year – drawing 2-2.

- Barcelona have scored more goals than any other team, having beating their opponents in defense on 61 occasions. This gives them an average close to 3.4 goals per game in La Liga.

- Barcelona have a 100% record away from home.

- A win for Barca against Malaga on Sunday will give the Catalan club its best ever first-half in a league season, with 55 points earned over a possible 57.

Head-to-Head – Last Five Meetings

27 February 2010: Barcelona 2-1 Malaga
16 January 2011: Barcelona 4-1 Malaga
21 May 2011: Malaga 1-3 Barcelona
22 February 2012: Malaga 1-4 Barcelona
2 May 2012: Barcelona 4-1 Malaga

Prediction

Pedro Rodriguez is determined to earn a definitive position as a full-time starter in the team through more accomplishments this weekend against Malaga. Likewise, current top scorer Messi – who is only three goals away from reaching the 30-goal mark – is also prepared to take his tally to a higher level. But despite the fierceness of Barcelona’s attack, one must not misjudge the severity of Malaga’s defense.

Differently, Barca’s defensive line has shown some inconsistencies and weaknesses lately. The match at La Rosaleda is set to be a close fight, with the team breaking the deadlock likely to snatch a narrow victory.

Prediction: Malaga 0-1 Barcelona

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