Hansi Flick takes charge of his first La Liga match with Barcelona this Saturday, against Valencia at the Mestalla. The German tactician could not have asked for a more auspicious opening match given their excellent record against Los Che.
The Catalans have emerged victorious in six of their last eight matches against Valencia. In fact, the hosts have failed to win against the visitors since January 2020.
The Mestalla has been an even more inhospitable venue for Valencia in this fixture. Los Che have managed only one win in their last 17 matches against Barcelona at this ground. Barca, meanwhile, have been a model of consistency in La Liga against Valencia, suffering only one defeat in their last 16 encounters. Coupled with Barcelona’s impressive away form – just two defeats in their past 19 La Liga away games – the odds appear heavily stacked in favour of the visitors.
The Blaugrana’s recent preseason form, which includes victories over Manchester City and Real Madrid, underscores their readiness for the new campaign. Barca’s attack led by the prolific Robert Lewandowski is another reason for them to confidently approach this encounter. The Polish striker, fresh off a 19-goal campaign, will pose a significant threat to Valencia’s defence and is a prime candidate for the anytime scorer market, available at 2.30 odds on 22bet.
Valencia, meanwhile, will rely on top scorer Hugo Duro to lead the line. However, the absence of key players like José Gayà through injury will likely make their task even harder. Los Che’s recent form has also been underwhelming, with only two wins in their last ten league games.
Barcelona, in contrast, have a fantastic record in this fixture, winning 89 out of 178 La Liga matches against Valencia. That number should rise to 90 wins after 90 minutes on Saturday.
Betting Tip: Barcelona to Score First and Win
17/08 20:00 Valencia – Barcelona Barcelona to Score First and Win @ 1.89 (22bet)
Given Barcelona’s absolute dominance over Valencia, both at home and away, coupled with their strong away record, their impressive preseason results, and Valencia’s struggles against this opponent at the Mestalla, it’s difficult to look beyond a Barcelona victory.
The absence of key players due to injuries further tilt the scales in Barcelona’s favour.
The Catalans will want to start the season with a bang in Flick’s first match in La Liga, and backing them to score first and win at 1.89 odds on 22bet seems like a solid bet.
While Los Che will undoubtedly fight hard and have the home crowd’s support, it’s hard to envision them overcoming the Blaugrana.
Valencia vs Barcelona - Barcelona to Score First and Win @ 1.89
Predicted Line-ups:
Valencia: Stole Dimitrievski, Thierry Correia, Cristhian Mosquera, Cesar Tarrega, Jesus Vazquez, Dimitri Foulquier, Hugo Guillamon, Pepelu, Diego Lopez, Rafa Mir, Hugo Duro.
Barcelona: Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Inigo Martinez, Alex Balde, Marc Casado, Andreas Christensen, Lamine Yamal, Ilkay Gundogan, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski.
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