FC Barcelona vs. CD Leganés | Betting Tip & Prediction (15.12.2024)

Kick-off: Saturday, 15th December 2024, at 20:00 GMT

On Sunday, 15th December 2024, at 20:00 GMT, FC Barcelona will host CD Leganés at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys for matchday 17 of La Liga. Barcelona, leading the league with 38 points, aim to strengthen their position at the top, while newly promoted Leganés, sitting in 14th place with 15 points, are looking to gain vital points to avoid the relegation battle.

Form Analysis: FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona have shown mixed form in recent weeks, recording only one win, three draws, and one loss in their last five La Liga matches. However, a recent 5-1 away win against Mallorca highlighted their attacking potential, with Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal playing pivotal roles. Despite their offensive firepower, defensive vulnerabilities have emerged, especially against quick counter-attacks.

Head coach Hansi Flick emphasised the importance of focusing on each game as it comes, with an eye on improving defensive organisation. The return of key players like Ansu Fati and Ronald Araújo is expected to bolster both attack and defence.

Form Analysis: CD Leganés

CD Leganés have had a challenging season, managing just 15 points from 16 matches. Their recent form includes one win, one draw, and three losses in their last five league games, including a heavy 0-3 defeat against Real Sociedad. Their defence has been particularly fragile, conceding nine goals in their last four matches.

The absence of key defender Álex Suárez due to suspension weakens their backline further. Offensively, they will rely on Munir El Haddadi, who is the only current Leganés player to have scored at Camp Nou in the past, to spearhead their attacks.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Historically, FC Barcelona have dominated this fixture, winning eight of the last nine meetings between the two sides. Leganés have only managed one victory, and there have been no draws in their head-to-head record. The last encounter ended in a 2-0 home win for Barcelona, highlighting their control in these matches.

Tactical Analysis

FC Barcelona are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 system, with an emphasis on possession-based football and attacking through the flanks. The creative midfield trio of Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong will look to control the tempo and supply the attacking trio of Lamine Yamal, Lewandowski, and Ansu Fati.

Leganés are likely to adopt a defensive 5-4-1 formation, aiming to frustrate Barcelona’s attackers and exploit any counter-attacking opportunities. Head coach Borja Jiménez will look to Jonathan Viera and Munir to provide a spark going forward. However, their defensive frailties and lack of experience at this level might prove costly.

Predicted Lineups

• FC Barcelona (4-3-3): Ter Stegen – Koundé, Christensen, Araújo, Balde – Gavi, De Jong, Pedri – Lamine Yamal, Lewandowski, Ansu Fati
• CD Leganés (5-4-1): Soriano – Lemos, Curbelo, Mármol, Sáenz, Franquesa – Viera, Neyou, Pardo, Rodríguez – Munir

Betting Options and Odds

1. Home Win for FC Barcelona and Over 2.5 Goals (Odds: 1.75): With Barcelona’s attacking quality and Leganés’ defensive weaknesses, a high-scoring home win is the most likely outcome.
2. Robert Lewandowski to Score Anytime (Odds: 1.50): The Polish striker is in great form and is expected to find the net against a vulnerable defence.
3. Both Teams to Score – No (Odds: 1.80): Leganés rarely score away from home, making a clean sheet for Barcelona a plausible outcome.

Betting Tip & Prediction: FC Barcelona vs. CD Leganés (15.12.2024)

FC Barcelona are clear favourites to win this match. Their attacking firepower and home advantage should be enough to overpower Leganés, who are missing key players and have struggled defensively.

• Our Tip: Home Win for FC Barcelona and Over 2.5 Goals (Odds: 1.75)
• Predicted Score: FC Barcelona 3-0 CD Leganés