Mon Jan 27 06:45:48 IST 2025: ## Barcelona Aims to Regain La Liga Momentum Against Struggling Valencia

**Barcelona, Spain** – FC Barcelona, riding high after Champions League success and a Spanish Super Cup victory, faces a crucial La Liga clash against Valencia on Sunday. Despite their European triumphs and Copa del Rey quarter-final berth, Barcelona has slumped to third in the league, winning only one of their last eight matches.

This weekend’s match at the Estadi Olimpic presents an opportunity to revive their domestic campaign. Valencia, currently hovering just above the relegation zone, are a seemingly weaker opponent on paper. However, under new coach Carlos Corberán, they have shown improved form, recently defeating Real Sociedad and nearly upsetting both Real Madrid and Sevilla. Key players like Hugo Duro and Luis Rioja pose a significant threat.

Barcelona’s recent struggles against lower-table teams are a concern. They’ve suffered home defeats to Las Palmas and Leganés, and could only manage a draw against Getafe last week. While a win would cut the gap to Atlético Madrid to three points, Real Madrid maintains a commanding ten-point lead. Athletic Club, currently level on points with Barcelona, could temporarily leapfrog them depending on their result against Leganés.

Despite Valencia’s recent uptick, Barcelona enjoys a strong historical advantage, having lost only three of their last 35 matches against them. Robert Lewandowski, who has scored six goals in three matches against Valencia, will be a key figure. The two teams will meet again in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals on February 6th.

This match also serves as a fundraising event. FC Barcelona and its Foundation are organizing a shirt auction to support the victims of the recent devastating floods in Valencia’s region.

Barcelona will be without Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Marc Bernal, Iñigo Martinez, and Dani Olmo due to injury or suspension. Valencia will also be missing key players like Mouctar Diakhaby, Thierry Correia, and Cristhian Mosquera.

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez acknowledged Valencia’s improved defense and stressed the importance of a win, stating, “It’s really important to win every game, and that’s the attitude we have to have going out on the field.” The match kicks off at 9 pm CET.

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