It’s been 2 weeks, but we’re finally back in La Liga, playing catchup after a week away in Saudi Arabia. Not only is it the first league game for a couple weeks, but Barça vs Getafe tonight is also our first home game of 2023.
Considering we’re almost at the end of January, it proves how many away games we’ve had to play. Following on from our incredible win over Real Madrid, and a comfortable win against Ceuta in the Copa Del Rey. We turn our attention to Getafe, live from the Camp Nou at 6:30pm local time. We’re playing catch-up in the league, with at least a game in hand over everyone around us. Thanks to our short break away for the Spanish SuperCup. Coming into the game, were fortunate to have a full fit squad.
Apart from Lewandowski and Ferran who are both serving 2 game suspensions. It’s important we turn up to the game with the right intensity, carry on the good vibes from recent games. And that means starting off strong, making sure we take advantage of every chance we create. Without Lewy, we are going to have to be even more clinical. Getafe are going to pose tough opposition vs Barça, so ending the game with a positive result against them is vital.
A quick look at our opponents:
Like mentioned previously, Getafe shouldn’t be underrated. Although they are sitting level on points with Valladolid, who are in the relegation zone, they have got players who can still do damage. Players like Unal and our very own Carles Aleña who are key players for Getafe.
Like with all our opponents, recent form doesn’t count for much. But if we were to look at their last 5 games, it shows that they have only picked up one win in their last 5 games. Which came against Mallorca at home, where they win 2-0. They’ve also managed to beat Real Sociedad near the beginning of the season too. In terms of statistics, they have scored 16 goals so far which is just over half the amount of goals we have scored.
They’ve also conceded 24 goals. 4 times the amount we have. They’re going to play with a low block and try to pack the midfield, so we need to ensure we stretch them around as much as possible.
Predicted lineup:
We are of course going to go strong tomorrow, there’s no doubt about that. Which means the team is pretty straight forward to pick. Rest and rotation is key, especially for our most important players. And especially ahead of that all important game against Sociedad in midweek.
But, tonight’s game is the most important. Killing the game off early would allow us to prepare for the Copa Del Rey, but getting the job done early tonight is vital. So that is why we need to start strong. Meaning our defence picks itself: Kounde, Araujo, Christensen and Balde. Thats simple.
In midfield, again it all depends on if we go for a four man midfield with Gavi as the inverted winger. Or if we go traditional with the three in midfield and Frenkie as the lone pivot. We played with a midfield four against Atleti, to make up for the absence of Lewy. And we could go down the same route again, but I think for a team like Getafe. Especially at home, we will need to stretch the pitch. Which is why I’d go for a three man midfield and three up top. Although having said that, I wouldn’t be totally against the new system we’ve found in recent games.
Up in the attack, its pretty simple. If we go for two up front, then it will most likely be Ansu and Dembele. Of course if we had a front three, then Raphinha would be in there. With La Masia’s Angel Alarcon making his league debut from the bench at some point.
My prediction:
Ter Stegen
Kounde- Araujo- Christensen- Balde
Pedri- Frenkie- Gavi
Dembele- Ansu- Raphinha
