Barcelona are where you’d expect them to be at this point in the season, on top of La Liga with a perfect record. It hasn’t all been smooth sailing, but their victory over Atletico Madrid gives them a perfectly reasonable claim as the world’s top team at the moment. But on Wednesday, they face a very difficult test, away to Celta Vigo.
Barcelona vs. Celta Vigo 2015 live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch La Liga online
Don’t expect the Blaugrana to win easily.
Both games between these two teams finished 1-0 last season, with each team winning once. Celta are coming off a big result over the weekend, having won away to Sevilla.
Most of the Celta team from last season has remained intact, though they’ve added some important new pieces. Iago Aspas gives their forward line a bit more punch, while Daniel Wass has given them a dedicated set piece specialist and some energy in the midfield.
The biggest question about Barcelona coming into the game is Lionel Messi’s position. He played in the center of midfield over the weekend to major success, and could continue to play in that role.
Key matchup - Dani Alves vs. Nolito
Ever since leaving Barcelona B, Nolito has been one of Celta Vigo's best players, and he's terrorized his old club. Alves was never a terrific defender, but he's slowed down quite a bit. If Celta are going to score, they'll probably do it from their man on the left flank who already has four goals this season.
Upset potential - Moderate to high
Celta sit in fifth place, undefeated so far in the league. They managed to upset Barca last season, while also taking points off Atletico Madrid and Valencia. They’re one of the toughest tests Barcelona will face this season.
Celta Vigo injuries and suspensions
Out: Ruben Blanco (collarbone)
Barcelona injuries and suspensions
Out: Claudio Bravo (calf), Thomas Vermaelen (calf), Rafinha Alcantara (knee). In doubt: Jordi Alba (neck), Sandro (leg)
Match Date/Time: Wednesday, 2 p.m. ET, 8 p.m. local
Venue: Estadio de Balaídos, Vigo, Spain
TV: beIN Sports (U.S. - English), beIN Sports en Español (U.S. and Canada - Spanish), Sky Sports 2 (U.K.), Canal+ (Spain)
Online: beIN Sports Connect (U.S. and Canada), Sky Go (U.K.), Canal+ (Spain)
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