Barcelona v Manchester City - 1x2 predictions

Match	Date	Selection	Bet	Odds	Bet now
Barcelona v Manchester City - 1x2 predictions Champions League Uefa, International	12/03/2014 20:45	full time result	Barca	1.57	Bet at Paddy Power
Betting prediction was written by Ronny

Barcelona is heading into this Champions league with a 2-0 lead from the match at the Etihad. Since that game however they’ve lost two out of their last three, and the press is, as expected all over them. This match represents a chance to show unity and strength now that they’re four points behind Real Madrid in the La Liga. The Catalan giants should have no selection worries for this game.

Manchester City was more or less on par with Barcelona until Demichelis got sent off in the 53^rd minute of the first leg. Especially when factoring in clear goal scoring opportunities. Manchester City looked good after the Barcelona game, winning the League Cup final against Sunderland after a very good second half, and beating a hard battle against Stoke with a narrow 1-0 margin in the EPL. However, a lackluster display against Championship side Wigan in the FA Cup saw them knocked out this weekend.  

Obviously Demichelis sits out here after his red card. Nastasic (central defender) could be ready after injury to partner Kompany. Otherwise Richards, Garcia or Lescott will get the nod. Jovetic (Attacking midfielder) is still sitting out.

Run of play

Obviously, as City has to push forward, and Barcelona can choose to play a more counter attack minded game. Being two goals up from the away leg, they should be able to control this. However, counter attack football isn’t really in their DNA. As we all know Barcelona likes to keep possession and break down opposing defenses through neat, built from the back short passing. One has to assume Barcelona again would have 60-65% of the possession. In terms of progressing to the next round, that is not helping the City cause.

Betting tip

Barcelona is 23-1-1 at home in their last twenty five matches. Since and including 2012 Barca is 8-3-1 at home in the Champions League. The way I read this game City has to have a flawless match, as well as a mega dosage of luck. Barcelona hasn’t been on top form lately you may argue. I get that! However, there were question marks before the game at the Etihad too. Barcelona went ahead and won there.

At home Barcelona is always likely to score at least once. Actually they have scored two or more in their last thirteen home games in a row. Obviously; a goal from the home side will make the task so much harder for City as they’d have to score at least four. A Barcelona goal will spur on the fans and discourage the visitors. This in turn will help Barcelona run things their way on the pitch!

Paddy Power offers 1.57 for the home win, as well as up to £250 in free bets for new customers. As there are many scenarios that are in favor of Barcelona I think those odds represent some value.

Agree with me? Click here to take 1.57 for mighty Barcelona

• Bet now at Paddy Power

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