Playing the final round of the La Liga season against the mightiest side in Spain is never an easy ask for any team. Still, Valencia have every reason to fancy their chances this weekend because Barcelona are unlikely to go all out in what amounts to a dead rubber before their players head off on holiday. The Catalans wrapped up the title weeks ago and have already said goodbye to Robert Lewandowski at the Camp Nou, so resting key men ahead of the World Cup break makes perfect sense for them.
Team Form
Valencia have endured a proper rollercoaster campaign that saw them flirting with the drop zone at one stage. Yet they now sit just two points shy of seventh place and a possible return to European football, which has given the squad a massive lift. In their last outing they showed incredible character by coming from behind to beat Real Sociedad 4-3 away despite playing with ten men and scoring twice after the eighty eighth minute.
- Valencia have picked up vital points in recent away fixtures despite tough odds
- Barcelona have already secured the title and face no pressure to win here
- The hosts need a victory to guarantee European qualification hopes
Tactical Analysis
Barcelona will likely field a much changed side with several stars rested, which opens the door for Valencia to press high and exploit spaces in midfield. The home side know exactly what is at stake and will look to use their energetic forwards to stretch a makeshift Barca defence. Expect a lively contest where Valencia dominate early possession while the visitors sit back and wait for counter opportunities.
Betting Proposal
Given the holiday mood in the Barcelona camp and Valencia’s strong motivation to grab seventh spot, the smart money is on the hosts avoiding defeat at Mestalla.
This is a rare afternoon when the underdog can grab something from the champions and the value lies firmly with a home win or draw.
Overall the fixture promises plenty of drama as both teams have reasons to go for it in patches, making it one of the more intriguing final day encounters across Europe.
