Messi needs one goal to equal Zarra's mark and two to become the new leader. Key Player: Rubén (Almeria) Almeria goalkeeper Rubén has managed only one clean sheet this season, but he's not exactly been giving up goals as a ridiculous rate either. That said, dealing with Barcelona is usually the kind of event that either brings out the best in a keeper, or make them want to run away a hide. If Rubén can have a big day, maybe get some help from his woodwork like Celta Vigo's keeper did last week, and who knows what might happen.
Key Matchup: Almeria's defense vs. Barca's three-headed monster Assuming Neymar, Luis Suàrez and Lionel Messi play, it will be the third straight match with Barca's new attacking force together. While things have completely clicked just yet, the signs are getting better with each passing week. Suárez is getting his fitness back and there's no doubt he's more than capable of making Barca more dangerous. The big question this week though is whether or not Messi gets a rest.
Barcelona must avoid a third straight league lossBarcelona will look to avoid losing three straight La Liga matches for the first time since 2003 when they travel to face Almeria on Saturday. The Blaugrana have had a rough time of it lately, first falling against their rivals Real Madrid two weeks ago in the Clásico before following that up with a humiliating 1-0 home loss against Celta Vigo. They were able to recover during the midweek with a win over Ajax in the Champions League, but their recent dip in form have many again concerned about the state of the team's defense. If Messi plays -- he's been carrying a minor knock and could use a rest -- he'll get another shot at breaking Telmo Zarra's all-time La Liga scoring record.
He's clearly not 100 percent, but it's tough to get him off the field sometimes. Even if the Argentine doesn't play, Almeria's defense is in for a real test. Almeria injuries and suspensions Out: None reported. In doubt: Sebastian Dubarbier (muscle), Thievy Bifouma (knee). Barelona injuries and suspensions Out: Andres Iniesta (knee), Jeremy Mathieu (leg), Thomas Vermaelen (hamstring). With both Mathieu and Vermaelen still out, Enrique will have to decide whether to start Gerard Piqué or Marc Bartra in the defense.
(FREE) Barça vs Almería live match 20/12/2023 13 hours ago — The Barcelona vs Almeria, La Liga match will be broadcast on Viacom 18 Network. Barcelona vs Almeria, La Liga: When And Where To Watch Live ...
