Barcelona's bid for a second LaLiga crown is brought to the ultimate challenge as they face Real Sociedad at the Olímpic Lluís Companys on Sunday. The league leaders, riding a historic five-game unbeaten run, are in irresistible stride with an unbeaten run of 13 matches. As Barcelona's ascendancy to the top of the table looks increasingly secure, Sociedad's own prospects of European qualification are threatened as they sit ninth, still trying to overcome a disconcerting string of four away defeats in succession.
History is very much on the side of the Catalans, who have made their temporary home a fortress this season with eight wins and just three losses. Barcelona's dominance in the game is particularly remarkable, having won 29 of their last 31 home games against Sociedad. Their attacking prowess, averaging 2.63 goals per home match, allied with a remarkable +42 goal difference so far this season, underlines their superiority in front of their supporters.
Robert Lewandowski remains at the center of Barcelona's danger in attack, still demonstrating his quality as one of LaLiga's finest finishers. The hosts' attacking abilities are supplemented by emerging starlet Lamine Yamal, whose 11 assists have been instrumental so far this season. Sociedad's hopes rest on Takefusa Kubo being able to spark a shock, but they have a dominating concern in their recent away performances - they have failed to score in seven of twelve away matches.
Despite Sociedad's win in their last match being a glimmer of hope, Barcelona's recent form and previous record see them as heavy favourites. With Barcelona seeking another step towards the title and Sociedad struggling to keep up their European ambitions, this match is poised to be more than just another league game. The stakes are as high as they can be for both teams as they head into what may turn out to be a season-defining game.
Betting Predictions
Primary bet: Over 2.5 goals @ 1.57
Secondary bet: Barcelona Win @ 1.25
Barcelona's prolific home form, where they're netting a staggering 2.63 per game, and Sociedad's travelling defensive weakness is a compelling case for goals at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium.
Our statistical model indicates an 82.25% chance of over 2.5 goals, which seems good value on current odds. Sociedad's defence is weakest on the road, where they've leaked goals regularly and are on a four-match streak of away defeats.
The home win option is enhanced by Barcelona's record-breaking past dominance in this tie, having won 29 of their previous 31 home matches against Sociedad.
The Catalans are themselves currently in terrific shape, having secured five successive LaLiga victories and having an ominous 8-0-3 home record this campaign. With Sociedad suffering a dismal run of four successive away defeats, Barcelona appear well set to extend their stranglehold on this tie.
Editorial Pick
The 20-point gulf between these two teams in the La Liga table heading into this weekend's round of fixtures should be visibly evident by the end of this game as Barcelona should run out comfortable winners. They may even score a bag full of goals to top it off, as they have put on several shows for their home fans this season.
