Kick-off: Saturday, 30th November 2024, at 13:00 UTC

On Saturday afternoon, FC Barcelona will host UD Las Palmas at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in a LaLiga encounter. Barcelona, aiming to consolidate their lead at the top of the table, will look to continue their strong run of form. Meanwhile, Las Palmas are battling to stay clear of the relegation zone and will need a resilient performance to trouble the league leaders.

Form Analysis: FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona are in exceptional form this season, sitting at the top of the LaLiga table with 34 points from 14 matches. They have recorded 11 wins, one draw, and two losses, highlighting their attacking dominance and defensive strength. Barcelona have scored 30 goals this season and conceded just 10, maintaining an excellent goal difference.

In their last five matches, Barcelona have won four and lost one. A convincing 3-0 win against Sevilla showcased their attacking depth, with standout performances from Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha. Their only recent setback was a 1-2 defeat to Real Madrid in El Clásico, where defensive lapses proved costly.

Key players for Barcelona include striker Robert Lewandowski, who remains their most reliable goal scorer, and Raphinha, whose creativity on the flanks adds dynamism to their attack. In midfield, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong are pivotal in controlling the game, while goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen ensures stability at the back.

Form Analysis: UD Las Palmas

UD Las Palmas are struggling this season, sitting 17th in LaLiga with 12 points from 14 matches. Their record of three wins, three draws, and eight losses reflects their difficulty in adapting to the top-flight competition. They have scored only 11 goals, while their defence has conceded 22.

In their last five matches, Las Palmas have won one and lost four. Their most recent victory, a 1-0 win over Granada, demonstrated their ability to capitalise on limited chances, but subsequent heavy defeats, including a 0-3 loss to Atlético Madrid, underlined their defensive weaknesses. Away from home, Las Palmas have struggled significantly, often failing to pose a consistent threat.

Key players include forward Sandro Ramírez, who offers creativity and a goal-scoring edge, and captain Jonathan Viera, who provides experience in midfield. Defensively, Álvaro Valles has been their standout performer in goal, frequently saving them from even heavier losses.

Head-to-Head Comparison

FC Barcelona have dominated recent encounters between these sides, winning four of their last five meetings. The most recent match, in March 2024, ended in a 1-0 victory for Barcelona, with Raphinha scoring the decisive goal. Las Palmas’ last win over Barcelona came in 2015, underlining the disparity between the two teams.

Historically, Barcelona’s ability to dominate possession and exploit defensive lapses has given them the upper hand in this fixture. Las Palmas have typically struggled to contain Barcelona’s attacking quality, particularly when playing away.

Tactical Analysis

Barcelona are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on high pressing and quick, incisive attacking play. Robert Lewandowski will lead the line, flanked by Raphinha and Ansu Fati, who will aim to stretch Las Palmas’ defence. In midfield, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong will look to control possession and break down Las Palmas’ defensive block. Defensively, Jules Koundé and Andreas Christensen will anchor the backline.

Las Palmas are likely to adopt a conservative 4-4-2 formation, focusing on defensive solidity and counterattacks. Sandro Ramírez and Munir El Haddadi will lead the line, supported by Jonathan Viera and Alberto Moleiro in midfield. Las Palmas will rely heavily on Álvaro Valles in goal to withstand Barcelona’s relentless attacking waves.

Predicted Lineups

  • FC Barcelona (4-3-3): Marc-André ter Stegen – Sergi Roberto, Jules Koundé, Andreas Christensen, Alejandro Balde – Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Gavi – Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, Ansu Fati.
  • UD Las Palmas (4-4-2): Álvaro Valles – Álvaro Lemos, Eric Curbelo, Saúl Coco, Sergi Cardona – Jonathan Viera, Kirian Rodríguez, Alberto Moleiro, Marvin Park – Sandro Ramírez, Munir El Haddadi.

Betting Options and Odds

  1. FC Barcelona to Win & Over 2.5 Goals (Odds: 1.75): Barcelona’s attacking form and Las Palmas’ defensive frailties make this a solid choice.
  2. Robert Lewandowski to Score Anytime (Odds: 1.60): Lewandowski’s sharpness in front of goal makes him a reliable bet.
  3. Barcelona to Keep a Clean Sheet (Odds: 2.10): With Las Palmas’ lack of firepower, Barcelona are well-positioned to secure a shutout.

Betting Tip & Prediction: FC Barcelona – UD Las Palmas (30.11.2024)

Barcelona’s attacking prowess, home advantage, and superior form should lead them to a comfortable victory. Las Palmas are likely to struggle against Barcelona’s relentless attacking play, making a high-scoring win for the hosts the most likely outcome.
Prediction: FC Barcelona to Win & Over 2.5 Goals (Odds: 1.75), with a likely scoreline of 3-0 or 4-1.