The Daily Star Ireland
Reigning Spanish champions Barcelona return from the international break aiming to get back to winning ways after a frustrating start to the campaign. Despite expectations of a dominant opening, Hansi Flick’s men have had to grind through early tests, including a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano just before the break. In that match, new goalkeeper Joan García emerged as the unlikely hero, making key saves to preserve the point.
Barcelona have otherwise shown flashes of brilliance. A 3-0 win away to Mallorca was made easier after two first-half red cards tilted the contest in their favor. However, the following week at Levante, the Catalans found themselves 2-0 down at halftime before mounting a dramatic comeback to snatch a 3-2 victory. It was a reminder of their resilience, but also of the defensive lapses Flick still needs to address.
Valencia Searching for Consistency
Valencia entered the new season with hopes of carrying forward the momentum they built in the latter half of last year under Carlos Corberán. However, their campaign has been inconsistent so far. They opened with a 1-1 home draw against Real Sociedad before falling 1-0 away to Osasuna, hampered by an early red card for José Gayà.
Just before the break, Los Che responded emphatically with a commanding 3-0 win over high-flying Getafe, who had won their opening two matches. That result reminded fans of the six-time Spanish champions’ pedigree, but also highlighted how much their fortunes can swing depending on discipline and squad availability.
Tactical Battle and Key Players
Barcelona are expected to line up with Marc-André ter Stegen back in goal, supported by Ronald Araújo and Pau Cubarsí in defense. In midfield, Frenkie de Jong’s return from injury is a boost, while Pedri and İlkay Gündoğan will look to control possession and supply creativity. Robert Lewandowski remains the focal point up front, while youngsters Lamine Yamal and potentially debutant Roony Bardghji provide fresh attacking options. Marcus Rashford, now wearing the No. 14 shirt, could also be deployed as an impact substitute.
Valencia’s approach will likely lean on structured defending and swift counters. Hugo Duro and Javi Guerra are their most potent threats, while André Almeida and Pepelu will try to disrupt Barcelona’s rhythm in midfield. If Los Che can stay disciplined at the back, their counterattacking style could exploit Barcelona’s occasional defensive frailties.
Prediction: Barcelona to Edge a Tight Contest
Despite Barcelona’s dominance in possession and depth of quality, Valencia have enough weapons to make life difficult. Expect the hosts to control large portions of the game but face resistance from Corberán’s well-drilled side.
A 2-1 scoreline in favor of Barcelona seems likely, with Lewandowski expected to find the net and Yamal providing the spark. Valencia could respond through Guerra or a set-piece opportunity, keeping the contest alive until the end.
Statistical Insight
Valencia have struggled away from home for some time, managing just two points from their last eight La Liga trips and losing 15 of their last 21. Barcelona, on the other hand, have won 15 of their last 21 league games on home soil.
Prediction: Barcelona 3 – 1 Valencia
