Valencia vs Barcelona Prediction: 17/8/2024

Valencia made significant strides last year by securing a commendable 9th place finish, a marked improvement from their struggles in the lower half of the table in previous seasons. The Blanquinegros are undoubtedly aiming to build on that progress this season, with aspirations of perhaps even contending for European qualification. To prepare, the team scheduled an extensive series of seven friendly matches. They kicked off with a 3-1 victory over Benidorm, followed by a goalless draw against Castellon and a narrow 0-1 defeat to Alaves.

On the other hand, FC Barcelona, the Spanish champions two years ago, had to relinquish their title to their fierce rivals, Real Madrid, after losing both “Clasico” matches and finishing ten points behind the capital club. It was a disappointing season for the Blaugrana, who also missed out on the Spanish Super Cup, suffering a heavy 1-4 defeat to Real Madrid, and lost the Copa del Rey to Bilbao. However, they made some headway in the Champions League, reaching the quarter-finals before being knocked out by Mbappé’s PSG.

Now under the leadership of Hansi Flick, Barcelona is determined to reclaim their status as a global football powerhouse this year. Their preseason included a 1-0 win over Spanish third-division side Olot, along with challenging matches against Manchester City, Real Madrid, and AC Milan during their U.S. tour. They also have a high-profile Joan Gamper Trophy match against AS Monaco lined up.

Low-scoring games have been rare for Valencia in recent home matches, with only four of their last 20 games featuring clean sheets. Similarly, Barcelona’s away games this season have seen both teams score in just two out of ten matches, making it unlikely that this trend will change in their upcoming encounter.

 

Prediction

Barcelona are well-positioned to make a strong run in LaLiga this season, bolstered by an unbeaten streak in their last seven away games, including five wins. In contrast, Valencia’s form has been underwhelming, with the team managing just two points from their last five matches.

Prediction: Valencia 0 : 3 Barcelona.