Celta Vigo vs Barcelona Preview, Prediction, Odds, Betting Tips 23.11.2024

• Date and Time: November 23, 20:00 GMT+1
• Venue: Balaídos, Vigo, Spain

Celta Vigo vs Barcelona Preview 

Celta Vigo 

Celta are still searching for the perfect tactical formula. Head coach Claudio Giráldez opted to ditch their previous attacking style in favor of a more pragmatic, defense-first approach.

Celta strengthened the holding zone with an additional midfielder, and the fullbacks now focus on defensive functions. The change of formation brought some results. First, they beat Getafe at home (1-0), and in the previous round, they came tantalizingly close to stealing all three points in a thrilling 2-2 draw with Real Betis.

𝗔𝗟𝗪𝗔𝗬𝗦 𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞 𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗦𝗜𝗗𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗘. pic.twitter.com/5RnSBgBAV5

— RC Celta (@RCCelta) November 18, 2024

During the international break, Celta players avoided injuries, and all key players have returned to training. With this stability, we don’t expect any changes in the lineup and Giráldez is likely to keep the same formation. 

Barcelona

At this moment, Barcelona stand tall as one of the best clubs in Europe. Their mastery of positional play is second to none, and their well-drilled offside trap significantly lightens the defensive workload for the Blaugrana’s backline.

Nevertheless, in the previous round, the leaders lost 0-1 against Real Sociedad. Despite adverse weather conditions favoring the hosts, Sociedad’s defensive block proved impenetrable, nullifying Barcelona’s attacking waves with remarkable composure.

C😄ACH FLICK. pic.twitter.com/JFE7XYxyqt

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) November 21, 2024

According to the latest reports, Robert Lewandowski is back to full fitness and expected to lead the line. However, Lamine Yamal will most likely miss the game. In addition, Andreas Christensen’s injury and will see him miss the rest of the season. 

On a positive note, Dani Olmo is expected to feature in the starting XI, adding creativity and flair to the team’s attacking setup.

Celta Vigo vs Barcelona Head-to-Head Statistics 

The teams have played 132 matches against each other, with the Catalan giants boasting a clear edge: 73 wins, 28 losses, and 31 draws. 

However, Celta are not Barcelona’s most convenient opponent. The hosts have lost against the visitors in two of the last five encounters at home. 

Among the most memorable matches, we can point out the clash in 2016, which Barca won 6-1. In this game, fans saw one of the best performances from the legendary trio Messi, Neymar and Suarez. 

Celta Vigo vs Barcelona Player Focus 

At age 37, Celta’s talisman Iago Aspas is gradually approaching the twilight of his illustrious career. However, he still leads the club with four goals alongside Borja Iglesias, proving he’s still a player to watch in the final third. 

For Barcelona, another veteran is leading the line. At age 36, Robert Lewandowski remains one of Europe’s most prolific marksmen. The Polish striker has scored 14 goals in 13 games and will undoubtedly be hungry to add to his tally in this fixture.

Plotting… pic.twitter.com/5zMOjMGKA1

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) November 21, 2024

Raphinha scored a fantastic free-kick during the international break against Venezuela. Under Hansi Flick we have seen his resurgence and the Brazilian is in fantastic form. 

Celta Vigo vs Barcelona Tactical Analysis 

Celta usually play with a 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 formation. In both systems the full-backs have a pivotal role and the central midfielders are responsible for controlling the ball. 

Barcelona, on the other hand, have adopted a dynamic approach under Hansi Flick, frequently deploying a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 setup. Barca mastered the offside trap and opponents are flagged for offside more than five times a match.  

Celta Vigo vs Barcelona Prediction 

• Football pick: Barcelona to Win
• Odds: 1.66 (22Bet)
• Score prediction: Celta Vigo 1-3 Barcelona

Barca’s squad has injury problems, which could play a role in this match. The injury of Lamine Yamal is a blow for the visitors. The young Spanish prodigy is a system-forming player who constantly threatens the flank of the opponent’s defence. 

Raphinha has that look. 😤 pic.twitter.com/EnvVm5lzXz

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) November 21, 2024

Without Yamal, it will be more difficult to find an approach to Celta’s defence. However, the hosts are far from their best form and have their own issues in the back. The defenders allow too many errors from their counterparts.

Under Hansi Flick, Barcelona has become a well-oiled machine that is effective against mid- and lower-tier opposition. Even without Yamal, they are the favourites in this clash, and our pick for the game is Barcelona to win.

Celta Vigo vs Barcelona Betting Tip 

• Football Pick:  Over 3.5 Goals
• Odds: 2.18 (22Bet)

It is unlikely that the Blaugrana will change their usual playing style and formation. Hansi Flick focuses on teamwork and pressure, so we do not expect a surprise against Celta Vigo.

However, the hosts are dangerous on the break. Despite his age, Iago Aspas is still a leader of the club and he will surely get some chances. Given Barcelona’s reliance on a high line and their expertly executed offside trap, there is a chance that Celta will get opportunities.

Barcelona need to bounce back after a defeat against Real Sociedad while Celta are playing in front of their fans. We expect a high-scoring affair and our prediction here would be over 3.5 goals.  

Disclaimer: The content provided on this page, including all football predictions, odds, and related information, is for entertainment and informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure accuracy and timeliness, we do not guarantee the correctness or reliability of any predictions, data, or information presented here. 

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