class=”article_teaser__2t5do”>The Catalans come into the game after a gruelling schedule and we are not expecting them to make a fast start when they visit Alicante this weekend
Barcelona travel to the Estadio Martinez Valero on Sunday afternoon to face Elche, with Ronald Koeman’s men aiming for their fourth consecutive victory in La Liga.
Jorge Almiron’s team, meanwhile, have not won any of their last 12 matches in the Spanish top flight with their last league success coming back in October.
Elche vs Barcelona Latest Odds
The side from the province of Alicante managed to hold Real Madrid to a 1-1 draw in their final game of 2020 and bet365 price another stalemate at 17/4 (5.25).
The hosts are offered at 7/1 (8.00) to record what would be a famous victory while Barca can be backed at 4/11 (1.36).
Elche vs Barcelona Team News
The Catalans make the trip south without Lionel Messi who serves the second of a two-match suspension following his red card in the Spanish Super Cup.
Gerard Pique, Ansu Fati, Sergi Roberto and Philippe Coutinho remain sidelined with long-term injuries.
Elche for their part are without forwards Guido Carillo and Fidel Chavez.
Elche vs Barcelona Preview
Tiredness must surely be catching up with the Blaugrana with the side having played three games that have gone to extra time in the space of eight days.
Both of their matches in the Super Cup saw an extra 30 minutes played, while Thursday night saw them endure another 120 minutes against third-tier side Cornella in the Copa del Rey.
The visitors therefore might be a little sluggish on Sunday afternoon and there could be some interest in opposing them to make a fast start.
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As they did against Real Madrid, Elche are likely to defend deep and try and close off any spaces for their opponents and a cautious opening half looks likely at the Estadio Martinez Valero.
Elche vs Barcelona Tips And Predictions
No goal before 24 minutes is offered at 5/6 (1.83) and could be a shrewd investment, while under 2.5 goals in the game could also appeal at 6/4 (2.50).
This season Barca have failed to score first-half goals against the likes of Getafe, Alaves, Cadiz, Levante, and Eibar and there could also be value in backing the second half to be the highest scoring half at 20/21 (1.98).
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