After disappointing results in both Europe and La Liga, Barcelona will be desperate to return to winning ways as they face Elche in Spain’s top flight. The match schedules for Wednesday at Camp Nou with kickoff at 9 pm.
The hosts were held to a draw during their clash with Cadiz at the weekend, while Elche claimed their long-awaited victory against fellow strugglers Eibar.
After a disappointing night at Camp Nou against Paris Saint Germaine in the Champions League, many opted for a quick comeback in the Catalan giants clash with Cadiz. Struggling Cadiz side managed to equalize a first half Messi goal that ended in a 2-1 win.
It was a significant leap for Barcelona in reclaiming their title race in the La Liga last weekend as Atletico Madrid faltered again. Fourth-placed Barcelona are currently eight points adrift of the league leaders.
Their loss last weekend ended a seven-game winning run for Barcelona in top flight. Although, it extended their unbeaten streak in La Liga to 13 matches since December’s defeat to newly-promoted team.
Elche head into Catalonia with a newfound confidence after managing to end their 16-game winless run in top flight against relegation candidates Eibar at the weekend. The side enter into the clash while sitting at 18th spot while level on points with their rivals Eibar. The side have not way an away match in eight attempts.
Barcelona vs. Elche Head to Head
Both sides have seven games against each other with Barcelona taking home six wins while Elche without a win. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
Barcelona 1-1 Cadiz
Barcelona 1-4 PSG
Catalan 5-1 Deportivo Alaves
Sevilla 2-0 Barcelona
Real Betis 2-3 Barcelona
Away
Elche 1-0 Eibar
Celta Vigo 3-1 Elche
Elche 2-2 Villarreal
Valencia 1-0 Elche
Real Vallavoid 2-2 Elche
Barcelona Team News
Ronald Koeman sets to remain without quartet Ansu Fati, Phillipe Coutinho, Ronald Araujo and Sergi Roberto. Options for full-back positions at the camp include Oscar Mingueza and Junior Firpo. Other recalls into the midfield positions include Miralem Pjanic, Riqui Puig, and Trincao.
Elche Team News
Escriba contends with a possible midfield change as Ivan Marcone remains suspended after accumulating five bookings. It might call for Omenuke Mfulu to deputize him in the engine room. Diego Gonzalez, Fidel and Jony Alama are expected to remain out ahead of the clash.
Prediction and Odds
Barcelona have a clean record when it comes to their opponents and there is nothing less than we expect than a win.
Barcelona Win
Goals Over 2.5
Messi to Score