FC Barcelona travels to Leganes this Saturday for another crucial La Liga match. Recently, Barcelona drew 1-1 against Real Betis at home before securing a dominant 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarter-final first leg. Despite the draw in their last league home game, Barcelona extended their lead over rivals Real Madrid, as Real Madrid lost to Valencia and then suffered a 3-0 defeat against Arsenal in their Champions League quarter-final first leg.
Leganes are currently struggling, having won only once in their last six league games. They have suffered three defeats and one draw in their most recent four matches, placing them 18th in the league table, two points away from safety. For Barcelona, Lamine Yamal is expected to be fit to start despite a minor injury sustained against Borussia Dortmund. He may feature alongside Gavi, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres. Robert Lewandowski is likely to be rested for the upcoming Champions League second leg against Borussia Dortmund.
Match Details
- Date: Saturday, April 12
- Location: Estadio Municipal de Butarque, Leganes, Spain
- Live stream: ESPN+
- Odds: Leganes +750; Draw +475; FC Barcelona -340
Previous Encounter
In their last meeting on December 15, Leganes surprisingly defeated Barcelona 1-0 at Camp Nou in the first La Liga round. Sergio Gonzalez scored the only goal, marking a low point in Barcelona`s season.
Barcelona`s Perspective
Ahead of the match, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick emphasized the importance of maintaining their Champions League level of performance. “It will be vital to play with the same approach and desire that we have in the Champions League. We have to show our strength. There are only eight games left in the league and we have to go for it if we want to win it. If you want to be champions, you have to demonstrate that in these types of games,” Flick stated.
He also acknowledged Leganes` strength, noting their win against Barcelona earlier in the season, as well as their victories against Atletico Madrid and a close game against Real Madrid. “Leganes defend really well and they also know how to attack from deep. We will have to be careful and we have to be very focused for this game. We are leaders and we have to show that. They are fighting against relegation and it will be a tough game. We will see how the players are feeling and make the necessary changes to the team,” he added.
Projected Lineups
Leganes: Marko Dmitrovic; Sergio Gonzalez, Matija Nastasic, Renato Tapia; Valentin Rosier, Seydouba Cisse, Yvan Neyou, Javi Hernandez; Juan Cruz, Dani Raba, Diego Garcia.
FC Barcelona: Wojciech Szczesny; Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Alejandro Balde; Pedri, Frankie De Jong; Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Raphinha; Ferran Torres.
Key Player
Lamine Yamal, FC Barcelona: Lamine Yamal is expected to be a standout player again after his impressive Champions League performance, where he scored and contributed to another goal. Despite a minor injury, he is anticipated to start and lead the team`s attack.
Match Context
Will Flick Rotate Effectively? Similar to other top club managers, Hansi Flick faces the challenge of squad rotation to keep players fresh during a busy period. Barcelona is still competing in La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid on April 26. They are also potentially facing a Champions League semi-final against either Bayern Munich or Inter Milan soon after.
Match Prediction
Barcelona is favored to win and secure three points following their 4-0 Champions League victory.
Prediction: FC Barcelona 3, Leganes 0
Dominic Ashworth