Barcelona needed a week-long preparation cycle for the match, and they finally got it. Many injuries continue to torment Xavi, but the recovery of Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Jules Kounde is already encouraging. This predicament resulted in being the underdog in Bet365 Sportsbook odds against Real.
After an excellent first half, they managed to get two blows from Bellingham and lose to their sworn enemy rival. Real turned the tide of the away battle, won the Clasico and returned to first place. And Barcelona fell out of the top 3.
Robert Lewandowski remains doubtful for Saturday’s Clasico, as do Frenkie de Jong, winger Raphinha and Jules Kounde. Moreover, Spanish midfielder Pedri is injured and will not take the field, as well as Sergi Roberto. Of course, it is worth noting the young Marc Giu, who scored his first goal for the senior team in his first appearance as a substitute just a few seconds after appearing on the field.
However, he can hardly be called a worthy replacement for the leaders. João Felix is Barça’s main attacking force, and even though the Portuguese were injured in the match against Shakhtar, the injury was not serious.
Alaves before the game
Alaves are struggling and will try to deny Barça a positive history, but with their last seven matches without a win, the odds are understandably tougher against the visitors.
Their nine points from ten matches are identical to those at the same stage of the 2021/22 La Liga campaign, an ominous sign for manager Luis Garcia, who has worked hard to return the club to the first division. Unfortunately for the Madrid-born and bred Alaves coach, his side was anything but nicknamed “The Glorious Ones” when they visited his hometown and have lost their last eight games.
DSTV business revitalizes pubs and clubs as football returns
Simeone will not play for Alaves on Sunday; the participation of Benavidez and Lopez is questionable. Alaves have not won since September 2 and the match against Valencia; in the last six matches there were three defeats and three draws. After the international break, the Basques played out a draw with Villarreal in the away game. The Basques’ away record is 17th in the division, with no wins, two draws and three losses.
Match prediction
Barça now has a burning desire to rehabilitate itself and formulate a quick reaction to the defeat in the Classico. The motivation of the embittered Catalans will be prohibitive. And no Alaves will become an obstacle for the Blue-garnets.
It is worth noting that Barça has not yet stumbled at home in the current campaign, having won 6 victories, not counting the defeat from their main rival, Real Madrid. Moreover, another misfire by Barça will allow Real to gain a solid lead – Madrid will play at home against Rayo on Sunday.
