Barcelona Aim to Maintain Lead Against Mallorca
Barcelona will play against Mallorca at Camp Nou this weekend to extend their lead at the top of La Liga. The Blaugrana are in excellent form, while Mallorca will hope to cause an upset.
Head-to-Head
The recent meetings between Barcelona and Mallorca have been closely contested. Mallorca won their last home match against Barcelona, while Barcelona won the last encounter 1-0 earlier this season.
Barcelona Line-up (confirmed)
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has confirmed his starting lineup for the match. Marc-Andre ter Stegen will be in goal behind a back four of Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, and Joao Cancelo. In midfield, Ilkay Gundogan and Lamine Yamal will partner in a double pivot, with Raphinha and Joao Felix playing on the wings. Youngster Marc Guiu gets the nod alongside Felix in attack.
Mallorca Line-up (predicted)
Mallorca boss Javier Aguirre is expected to deploy a defensive 5-4-1 formation. Predrag Rajkovic will start in goal, shielded by a five-man defense consisting of Matija Nastasic, Antonio Raillo, Jose Copete, Giovanni Gonzalez, and Toni Lato. In midfield, Sergi Darder and Samu will be tasked with controlling the tempo, while Manu Morlanes and Vedat Muriqi provide an attacking threat. Cyle Larin could also come on as a substitute in the second half.
Can Barcelona Maintain Their Lead?
Barcelona are clear favorites for this match, with their strong squad and home advantage. However, Mallorca have proven to be a tough opponent in the past. The key for Barcelona will be to break down Mallorca's defense and create chances for their attacking players.
Prediction
Barcelona's attacking prowess should see them through this match. However, Mallorca are capable of causing problems on the counter-attack. Expect a close encounter with Barcelona edging out a narrow victory.