Spanish La Liga
2008-11-29 - Sevilla vs Barcelona
A Sports Betting Pick by Shady
Spain, Primera Division
Saturday 29th November 2008 - Kickoff 21:00
Analysis
Barcelona winning run came to an end last weekend against Getafe with a 1-1 draw. Manager Pep Guardiola says he wants his side to go all out attack. Not a comment you want to hear for a Sevilla supporter.
Barcelona possesses an extremely powerful attacking force. Barcelona will face Real Madrid, Valencia and Villareal in the following weeks, therefore a win here is crucial if Pep Guardiola side want to remain on top of the La Liga during the winter break.
With Samuel Eto, Yaya Toure and Carlos Puyol rested in the midweek Champions League game, they should be recall and feature in this crucial clash. Lional Messi and Henry had half a game in midweek and is expected to start alongside Eto.
Pep Guardiola should start with his favourite 4-3-3 formation with Eto, Messi and Henry up front supported by Xavi, Yaya Toure and Keita in midfield. In defense, club captain Carlos Puyol will start alongside Pique with Daniel Alves and Sylvinho.
Daniel Alves should supply his current teammates sufficient information about his ex-teammates. It will be interesting to see how Daniel Alves will perform against his former side.
Key man to watch out would definitely be Messi. His movement and passing has been sublime. The forward runs by Daniel Alves would also be key to this game.
Team news :
Barcelona :
Barca will be without Andres Iniesta, Eri Abidal and Gabi Milito as they are sidelined through injury.
Sevilla :
Manolo Jimenez will be missing Arouna Kone and Chevaton while Fibiano, Escude, Ascosta and Squillaci are doubtful. Jesus Navas is suspended for the game.
Betting Stats
Under the asian handicap line, Sevilla only managed to win 2 games from the possible 6 at home. Both win came against Bilbao and Espanyol. Not a good record when you’re facing red-hot Barcelona.
On the other hand, Barcelona have only lost a single game on the road based on the asian handicap line this season. That defeat came at the opening day of the season against new-comers Numancia. Since then, Barcelona has covered the asian handicap line.
The Verdict :
Barcelona will want to win this game after drawing against Getafe last weekend. With Sevilla being very inconsistent this season, I cannot believe how people would back Sevilla to win this game.
Barcelona is only giving -0.25 on the asian handicap and it seems to be a value bet for me.
The Statistics :
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BEST BETTING TIP :
Barcelona to win at a price around 2.30.
Gooner’s Statistical Value Bet
Take Barcelona to give -0.25 start. (Main Bet)
