Barcelona have put themselves in a situation where they have to win all their remaining games in order to be assured of the league title. Some few months ago, the Catalan giants were leading the table with more than seven points, but decided to lift their feet off the pedal following the defeat to Real Madrid at the Nou Camp.
Luis Enrique’s men will now hope to return to winning ways when they host Valencia, a side that pulled of a shocking win over Sevilla last weekend in La Liga. Los Che, as they are famously known, have had three managers this season, a factor that has contributed to their inconsistent form.
On the other hand, Barca have suffered three loses in their last four matches, something that gives Valencia the much-needed confidence as they travel to the Nou Camp. Following the elimination from the Champions League by Atletico Madrid last Wednesday, Los Blaugrana now have their eyes fixed on two titles; the Copa del Rey and La Liga.
With the Copa del Rey being their last competitive fixture of the 2015/16 season, Luis Enrique’s side must do all they can to defend the league title and regain their lost confidence.
Another factor that has contributed to Barca’s slump in form is Lionel Messi’s goal drought. The Argentine has now gone five matches without scoring a goal, his worst ever goal drought in his professional career. The legendary footballer is still hunting for his 500th career goal, and he could as well get it if luck will be on his side today against Valencia.
Real Madrid’s 5-1 win over Getafe on Saturday has now reduced the gap between the two rivals to just one point. This should be a good reason enough for Barca, who have a game in hand (against Valencia) to go for nothing less than three points on Sunday. It should also be noted that Atletico Madrid are still firmly in the title race as they hope to floor Granada at the Vincente Calderon today in order to pile more pressure on the league leaders.
Barcelona is like a caged lion right now; the two Madrid giants are praying that the defending Champions will surrender their lead, consequently setting up yet another battle of Madrid as Real and Atleti try to outdo each other for the title. But it is very unlikely that FCB will let it go that easily.
For bookies, this game could register over 2.5 goals if Barca’s last 15 games at home are anything to consider. The Blaugrana have also won 9 of their last 10 matches against Valencia in all competitions, and have also scored at least twice in 9 of their last 10 home games against The Oranges in all competitions.
Team news
Barcelona
Arda Turan is suspended for this fixture after collecting his fifth yellow card, while Luis Suarez is set to return from suspension for a similar offense. Claudio Bravo could also return between the posts.
Valencia
Jose Gaya and Joao Cancelo are expected to start at the full-back position, while Santi Mina and Rodrigo could start wide in the midfield. Pablo Piatti and Denis Cheryshev are still doubtful for this clash due to injuries, while Sofiane Feghouli is completely unavailable for selection.
Which channel is broadcasting Barcelona vs Valencia on TV or Online?
USA: Watch Barcelona vs Valencia live on beIN SPORTS en Español, beIN SPORTS USA, fuboTV or beIN SPORTS CONNECT U.S.A. at 14:30 EDT.
Canada: Tune in to beIN SPORTS en Español, beIN Sports Canada or beIN SPORTS CONNECT Canada at 14:30 EDT.
UK: Follow the La Liga action live from the Nou Camp on NOW TV UK, Sky Go UK, Sky Sports 3/HD or SKY GO Extra at 19: 30 BST.
Spain: Tune in to Abono Futbol 1, Canal+ Partidazo or Movistar TV Fútbol at 20:30 CEST.
You can also visit our live broadcast page for additional TV listings for your specific country if you do not reside from any of the four aforementioned countries.
*NOTE: Live broadcast data is subject to change
Match details, result and original broadcast info
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