Barca vs Eibar : Match Preview

Introduction

After winning 3-0 against Valladolid, FC Barcelona had some breath of confidence. However, it would be a tough test for them against Eibar especially in the absence of Messi. On the other side, Eibar would need to stretch out their distance from the relegation zone on the table.

Build up

By now, Barca is having a very mixed set of results in the season so far. Lack of confidence and bad performance from their defence has let them down quite often. Losing EL Classico, a surprise defeat against Cadiz may have not been a good signal for Koeman’s side. Nevertheless, last wins against Valladolid and Real Sociedad helped to regain a respectable position on the table. With a lot of injuries and suspensions, Koeman needs to deploy a well-balanced team against Eibar tonight.

On the other hand, Eibar needs a win desperately to a sure a place in the league next season, they are hanging 1 point above the relegation zone. This will be one of the most tough 3 points to gain for Eibar. Losses against Real Madrid and Alaves had left them with unsatisfactory form.

Head-to-head

Other than home game 2-2 draw in season 2019-20, Eibar had lost all the last 10 games against FC Barcelona in the league. The last two fixtures had 3-0 and 5-0 clear wins for the Catalans.

Barca form – LWWDW

Eibar form – DDWLL

TEAM NEWS AND TACTICS

BARCA

Barca have lost all of their La Masia captains to injuries- G.Pique, Sergi Roberto, and Lionel Messi. Dembele might return for this match on right-wing to replace La Pulga. Jordi Alba will also miss out due to a yellow card suspension in the last game. Ansu Fati is also in the bracket of injured players.

Predicted formation:- 4-2-3-1 or a 3-5-2

Eibar

While Cote is injured; R.Correa, Oliveira, Enrich are doubtful to start.

Predicted formation:- 4-2-3-1

Players to watch out for

BARCA

F. DE JONG

After a tough start to the season, Frenkie De Jong has had a good run of form in the last couple of games. Expect him to dominate the midfield against a tricky Eibar side.

ANTOINE GRIEZMANN

Although, he has had a topsy turvy career at Barca, he has scored some important goals this season. In the absence of Messi, Griezmann will be looking to be at his best against Eibar.

EIBAR

PEDRO LEON

The tricky winger could be a handful for the Barca fullbacks to handle, especially given their defensive struggles and Leon’s experience in La Liga.

KIKE

Another veteran player, who has scored plenty of goals this seasons. Araujo and co. will have to be careful so as to not allow him much space in the box.

CONCLUSION

Even though stats shout victory for Barca, Eibar can hurt them by playing defensively and exploit the area on wings (as Barca’s wingback are offensive).

These could be a much needed 3-points for Cules to move up the league table.