That Coppa del Rey El Clasico played in midweek at the Santiago Bernabeu, with Xavi’s boys clinching a 1-0 victory, is a distant past for the Spanish powerhouses. Both sides face new La Liga challenges on Sunday, with Barcelona playing against Valencia earlier and Madrid confronting Betis away later this night.Battle for Spain: Real Madrid fans protest outside the stadium, Barca win insideCarlo Ancelotti’s side could be ten points behind leaders Barcelona by the time they kick off, so it would probably put more pressure on the reigning champions. Alongside Karim Benzema, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo will be expected to provide the goals for Los Blancos, with the Brazilian duo both expected to start in Andalusia. However, neither have scored away from the Santiago Bernabeu in La Liga in almost six months.##NAJAVA_MECA_7069117####NAJAVA_MECA_7069133##On the other hand, Xavi Hernandez’s side are looking to bounce back from last weekend’s shock defeat to Almeria, but they have been left short of options due to injury and suspension. Gavi picked up a fifth league booking of the season last Sunday, meaning that he is suspended, while Robert Lewandowski, Ousmane Dembele and Pedri remain out injured.🔥 Ansu Fati 🔥#BarçaValencia #LaLigaHighlights pic.twitter.com/WsZOsi4z42— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 5, 2023 It is a crucial match for both sides for two very different reasons. Barcelona are looking to stretch their advantage in the title race, while Valencia – under their new coach, club legend Ruben Baraja, are seeking three points to continue their battle against relegation.LA LIGARound 24FridaySociedad – Cadiz 0-0SaturdayGetafe – Girona 3- 2 (2-0)/Unal 2, 14 pen, Mayoral 43 – Castellanos 54, Gutierrez 84/Almeria – Villarreal 0-2 (0-0)/Moreno 76, Morales 88/Mallorca – Elche 0-1 (0-0)/Boye 88/Atletico Madrid – Sevilla 6-1 (2-1)/Memphis 23, 26, Griezmann 53, Carrasco 69, Morata 76, 90+2 – En-Nesyri 39/Sunday16:00: (2.40) Valladolid (3.25) Espanyol (3.30)18:15: (1.50) Barcelona (4.30) Valencia (7.75)20:30: (3.10) Rayo Vallecano (3.05) Ath.Bilbao (2.65)23:00: (5.00) Betis (3.70) Real Madrid (1.80)Monday23:00: (2.80) Osasuna (2.95) Celta (3.05)***odds are subject to change***
