Xavi bounce to begin at Villarreal
Villarreal host Barcelona after their midweek loss to Manchester United and will be hoping to spoil the party of Xavi’s first away league game as manager. Despite all of the bad press Barcelona are not a million miles away in fifth place and look a side on the whole, who could improve to comfortably finish in the top four. Xavi’s aura will take the spotlight and any pressure off of Villarreal to get a result which suits Unai Emery’s men. The market is very even for this however the underlying are suggesting I lean one way in terms of a selection and the trust Asian Handicap will be our helping hand once again.
Process
Both sides are underperforming in front of goal considerably, both teams to score could be a worthwhile punt but Xavi looks to be sorting out Barca’s defensive line first and a clean sheet will be achievable. The visitors have not conceded a goal since Xavi has come in and could extend that run here.
The Yellow Submarine have experienced a slow start to the season, struggling a touch to balance the Champions League with their domestic fortunes. Emery’s men rank eighth for attacking process but have scored just 15 goals from 19.9 expected goals (xG). Barca have scored 20 from 24.4 xGF so also feel due a goal and have a superior process to Villarreal.
Unders could also be an option in combination with another selections with both sides performing better defensively, Villarreal rank sixth for xGA and Barca fourth.
Goals?
Unders did appeal but it is too short for me to get involved, siding with the visitors is preferred but the following numbers are still worth taking into consideration.
- Villarreal have scored in eight of ten.
- Villarreal have conceded in seven of ten.
- Villarreal have seen both teams score in five of ten.
- Villarreal have seen over 2.5 goals in four of ten.
- Barca have scored in seven of ten.
- Barca have conceded in six of ten.
- Barca have seen both teams score in four of ten.
- Barca have seen over 2.5 goals in three of ten.
This will be a very competitive affair, Villarreal are sure to give a good account of themselves at home but Barca do edge it looking at the data and have looked much harder to beat so far under Xavi.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
Xavi-ball is in full swing. 3-1 Barca.