Team news
Getafe’s coach is expected to feature almost the same team of players that defeat Real Madrid earlier in the campaign. Cesc Fabregas could receive a rare starting berth in Barcelona’s line-up as Andres Iniesta is ruled out with injury. Javier Mascherano may make way for Carles Puyol in defence.
Analysis
Barcelona may not be at their best as many of their international football stars played a major role for their respective national team during the past week. However, they know what is at stake in this match. The Catalans are determined to stretch their perfect run as far as possible.
Even 91 points was not enough for them to win La Liga title last season. Each match in the 2012/13 Spanish Primera Division campaign presents Barcelona with an opportunity to snatch three points and go all the way to glory.
Matches between Getafe and Barcelona have proven to be very physical during the past few years. Saturday’s show could be slightly different though with Tito Vilanova eager to protect his players from injuries after the international break.
In the absence of injured midfielder Andres Iniesta, the Catalans may limit their play to possession football and only a few chances on goal. Still, Getafe may find it very difficult to steal the game away from Barcelona.
Last six meetings (all in La Liga)
September 12, 2009: Getafe 0-2 Barcelona
February 6, 2010: Barcelona 2-1 Getafe
November 7, 2010: Getafe 1-3 Barcelona
March 19, 2011: Barcelona 2-1 Getafe
November 26, 2011: Getafe 1-0 Barcelona
April 10, 2012: Barcelona 4-0 Getafe
Relevant facts
• Getafe have scored as many goals as they have conceded in La Liga this season.
• Barcelona’s last visit to Getafe ended in defeat.
• Getafe are after the Catalans after downing La Liga champions Real Madrid in August.
• The last six meetings between these two sides have produced a total of 30 yellow cards and red cards.
• The last 540 minutes played between these two sides show that Barcelona (13) clearly dominate Getafe (4) in terms of goals.
Prediction
Scores: Getafe 0-2 Barcelona
