FC Barcelona travels to Las Palmas this Saturday for what promises to be a pivotal La Liga clash, seeking to extend their slender lead over rivals Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. After capitalizing on Real Madrid's recent misfortune—including three matches without a win—Barcelona sits at the top of the table on goal difference. With 51 points from 24 matches, they aim to add three more against Las Palmas, who are locked in the relegation zone.
The match, held at the Estadio de Gran Canaria, kicks off at 8:00 PM local time, 3:00 PM ET. Las Palmas, currently 17th, has not secured a victory since the turn of the year and is desperately fighting to stay above the drop zone. Despite their recent struggles, the team has shown resilience, making things tough for opponents. Barcelona, who won their last encounter with Rayo Vallecano 1-0, is fully aware of the challenges they face.
Coach Hansi Flick acknowledged the difficulties of playing against Las Palmas, describing their last visit as "very difficult at home" and emphasizing the importance of preparation. "At home, they showed they are a great team and know how to play," he added during Friday's pre-match press conference. Flick emphasized, "The most important game now is against Las Palmas," before the upcoming Copa del Rey semifinal against Atletico.
To bolster their chances, Flick is expected to implement at least three changes to the starting XI. Young defender Pau Cubarsi will give way to Ronald Araujo alongside Iñigo Martínez, with Jules Koundé returning to the right back position after being sidelined last week due to disciplinary issues. Alejandro Balde will complete the back line at left back.
Barcelona's midfield is set to see Fermin Lopez step in for the injured Gavi, partnering with Pedri, who is making his return to the club where he began his professional career. Expected to play key roles are forwards Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and Robert Lewandowski, who will look to capitalize on opportunities against Las Palmas' defense.
While Las Palmas has experienced significant struggles this season, dropping points and suffering multiple consecutive defeats, they possess quality on their roster, including Sandro Ramírez, who has scored seven goals this season. With the added support from their home crowd, the Canaries aim to turn their fortunes around and secure three much-needed points.
Barcelona’s recent run includes four consecutive victories and they enjoy one of the league's best away records. Manager Hansi Flick insists his side is focused on every match, particularly this one, as it could play a significant role in determining the La Liga champion.
Statistics from their historical encounters favor Barcelona, who have won 48 out of 78 total matches against Las Palmas. While Las Palmas has recorded 21 victories, Barcelona's strong performance at home presents additional confidence.
Yet, Las Palmas is determined to pull off what would be seen as a significant upset. The pressure is mounting, with both teams staring down different ends of the La Liga table.
The outcome of this match will have far-reaching consequences for both sides: Barcelona will aim to maintain their momentum at the top, and Las Palmas hopes to avoid slipping closer to relegation. It is shaping up to be an exciting encounter, showcasing the best and most fiercely competitive elements of Spanish football.