Celta Vigo vs. Barcelona: Match Preview, Predictions, and Lineups
As Barcelona prepares to clash with Celta Vigo, both teams aim to solidify their positions in La Liga. This match marks a crucial moment for Barcelona, seeking consecutive league victories for the first time in over a month.
Celta Vigo vs. Barcelona: Match Preview
Barcelona’s last match ended in a disappointing 3–3 draw against Club Brugge in the Champions League. This result extended their winless streak away from home to three games, creating significant pressure ahead of their encounter with Celta Vigo.
Celta Vigo, under the guidance of Claudio Giráldez, will not be an easy adversary. The team has found its rhythm, remaining unbeaten since late September and capturing five consecutive victories across all competitions.
Head-to-Head Record
Barcelona has historically struggled at Estadio Municipal de Balaídos, with just two wins in their last ten visits. Here’s a summary of the last five encounters:
| Date | Match |
|---|---|
| June 2025 | Celta Vigo 0 – 3 Barcelona |
| November 2025 | Celta Vigo 1 – 2 Barcelona |
| October 2025 | Celta Vigo 2 – 1 Barcelona |
| September 2025 | Celta Vigo 3 – 1 Barcelona |
| August 2025 | Celta Vigo 0 – 0 Barcelona |
Current Form: Celta Vigo vs. Barcelona
- Celta Vigo: Five straight wins; strong form.
- Barcelona: Struggling defensively; need to improve.
Injury Updates
Both teams face significant injuries. Celta Vigo’s starting goalkeeper, Ionuț Andrei Radu, will miss the match. Iván Villar is set to replace him. Notable absentees also include Hugo Álvarez and Javi Rueda due to injuries.
Barcelona has its own injury challenges. Eric García sustained a nasal fracture and is doubtful to play. However, Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski are likely to start after recovering from their respective injuries.
Predicted Lineups
Here’s a look at the expected lineups for each team:
Celta Vigo (3-4-3):
- Villar; Rodríguez, Starfelt, Alonso; Mingueza, Beltrán, Moriba, Carreira; Jutglà, Iglesias, Zaragoza
Barcelona (4-2-3-1):
- Szczęsny; Koundé, Araújo, Cubarsí, Balde; De Jong, Olmo; Yamal, López, Rashford; Lewandowski
Barcelona’s defensive struggles have been evident. To succeed, they may need to replicate their attacking energy from recent matches. Lamine Yamal’s impressive performance could be key to unlocking Celta’s defense.
Match Prediction
The final outcome is challenging to predict. However, analysts suggest a close match, with Barcelona emerging victorious at 3-2, if their offensive play outmatches their defensive lapses.
As the international break approaches, both teams will be aiming to finish on a high note. Barcelona cannot afford to drop points against Celta Vigo this weekend.
