Following Real Madrid's loss to Real Betis on Saturday evening, Barcelona have even more breathing room in the La Liga title chase. If they defeat Levante, they'll go 11 points clear of their main rivals, and should virtually wrap up the title before the last week of November.
Levante vs. Barcelona: Home side with much more to play for
La Liga might already be over, even if Barcelona manage to lose to Levante on Sunday
Of course, a victory isn't a given for the Blaugrana, given Levante's great home form and solid defensive record. Last season, when Barcelona traveled to the Ciutat de Valencia, they were given all that they could handle but eventually squeaked out a victory. They tested Madrid at home earlier this year, own a home victory over Valencia, and held Atletico Madrid to a draw on home soil as well.
Levante played in Europa League in mid-week, where they played a half-and-half first and second team. Expect manager Juan Ignacio Martinez to make numerous changes to his starting XI.
Barcelona injuries and suspensions
Out: David Villa, Marc Bartra, Alexis Sanchez, Isaac Cuenca. In doubt: Adriano, Thiago
Levante injuries and suspensions
Out: Pedro Lopez.
Thiago and Adriano have both returned to full training and should both make the 18-man squad for Barcelona, though they’re unlikely to start. David Villa picked up a mild ankle injury midweek and should return shortly, but will sit out against Levante. The only notable absence for the home side is Pedro Lopez, who is suspended.
Match date/time: Saturday, 9 p.m. local time, 3 p.m. ET
Venue: Estadi Ciutat de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
TV: beIN Sport (U.S. - Spanish), Sky Sports 1 (U.K.), Canal+ 1 (Spain)
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