Barcelona to breeze through another test?
A fortnight ago, it appeared there was a decent chance of Barcelona dropping their first away points against Osasuna, as the champions' record at the Estadio Reyno de Navarra was poor and Osasuna were unbeaten at home, yet despite enduring a chaotic journey to Pamplona, Barca triumphed 3-0. They face a similarly tough task - on paper at least - on Saturday. Would you dare lay them?
Espanyol v Barcelona (7pm, Saturday, Sky Sports 4)
It's the first Catalan derby of a brilliant season for both clubs, with Barcelona taking 40 points from a possible 45 and Espanyol occupying a Champions League place. They sit fourth due to their perfect home record, but the Periquitos are [12.5] to extend it by beating Pep Guardiola's side, who have scored 21 without reply in their last four La Liga matches. Barca have won just three of the last ten derbies though, and one of five at Espanyol, yet are [1.29] to achieve their tenth league win in a row.
Real Sociedad v Valencia (9pm, Saturday, Sky Sports 4)
La Real waited 43 months to be reunited with Barcelona yet no doubt wish they hadn't been after losing 5-0 at the Camp Nou. Valencia are only three points ahead of them however after blowing a 3-1 lead against Osasuna. Real Sociedad are impressive hosts, so back them to erase that gap at [3.25].
Malaga v Atletico Madrid (6pm, Sunday, Sky Sports 3)
Manuel Pellegrini won both of his meetings with Atletico last season while in charge of Real Madrid but hasn't started as strongly at Malaga as many expected. They have finally delivered a couple of victories at La Rosadela though, and given Atletico's struggles on the road, should be fancied at [3.3].
Real Madrid v Sevilla (8pm, Sunday, Sky Sports 3)
Real Madrid's tricky run of games post-Clasico isn't working out too badly, because the "best of the rest" candidates are all not in great form. Sevilla's recent results have been worse than most, losing four straight La Liga fixtures. It's therefore no shock that Real Madrid are [2.18] to win both halves.
Got any bets lined up for this weekend's Spanish action? Share them below...
Published: 16 Dec 2010
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