Real Madrid will be looking to return to the top of La Liga this weekend when they travel to face Granada in their first game back after the international break.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side are second in the league table after a string of impressive results, but they will need Real Sociedad to slip up against Valencia on Sunday evening.
Both Atletico Madrid and Barcelona play on Saturday evening, with Xavi set to take charge of his first game at the Camp Nou.
Real Eye 13th Consecutive Win Against Granada
Ancelotti’s troops have won five of their previous six games in all competitions, and they will fancy their chances on their travels.
Granada are hovering above the bottom three, with their superior goal difference keeping them in 17th. Robert Moreno’s side have only lost one of their previous five games, but their record against Real is poor.
The Spanish giants have won 12 games in a row against Granada, and they have scored two or more goals in eight of those victories.
An away win and over 2.5 goals is worth considering at 21/20, especially considering Granada have only kept two clean sheets in their previous ten games.
Home Advantage Will be Key for Barcelona
Saturday’s fixture against rivals Espanyol will start a new era at Barcelona, with Xavi now at the helm after Ronald Koeman was sacked for a poor run of results.
The former Barcelona midfielder knows he will have the backing of the club’s fans, and that will be crucial as they try to return to winning ways in the league.
Barcelona are without a win in four league matches, with Real Madrid and Rayo Vallecano getting the better of them before draws against Alaves and Celta Vigo.
Even though Barca’s squad is riddled with injuries, Xavi’s side have a superb record at home against Espanyol, and they have won their previous four games at home without conceding.
Barcelona are 6/5 to win to nil, and that looks good value as Xavi looks to improve the mood at the Camp Nou.
Los Che’s Away Form to Cost Them Dear
League-leaders Real Sociedad have enjoyed an incredible start to the season, but they are only one point clear of Real Madrid and Sevilla.
Imanol Alguacil’s troops have been able to keep their rivals at bay despite having several issues to contend with.
Since losing to Barcelona on the opening weekend of the season, Sociedad have enjoyed a 16-match unbeaten run. Valencia have improved of late, beating Villarreal 3-0, before securing a point against reigning champions Atletico Madrid.
However, Los Che have won just one of their previous 17 away from the Mestalla, and a home win looks the way to go at 20/29.
*All odds correct at time of writing.