Barcelona returns to the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys this weekend, knowing that it needs to be victorious against Leganés in order to maintain its strength in the title chase for La Liga. Barça remains with 36 points and only one adrift from Real Madrid. However, another slip could be too costly this time around due to the immense pressure on top of the table.
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On the other hand, Leganés comes in dire straits. With only 15 points, the Madrid-based side sits in 17th place, really close to the relegation zone. For the visitors, the victory is a must if they want to avoid sliding down even more, especially in case Espanyol secures points this round.
Barcelona needs to regroup
Under Hansi Flick, Barça has been inconsistent in La Liga. The draw in the last match showed a team that often seems out of focus and inefficient at decisive moments. To make things worse, recent results haven't been encouraging: only two wins in their last five games.
Still, home turf could be the saving grace for Barça. The numbers against Leganés in Catalonia are in favour of the hosts. The blaugrana have won all five matches played between the sides on their home turf-four in La Liga and one in the Copa del Rey. Even better, they haven't conceded a goal in the last two meetings.
I told them that we need to play with 100% concentration. It is up to us. They will attempt to grasp points, but we have to do our game."
The message is clear: victory will come because of the mentality and attitude of the team. At this juncture, Flick will brook no excuses or distractions. No griping at referees or on-field tiffs, such as witnessed during the last outing.
Leganés bad away performance
While things are not looking good for Barcelona, Leganés's away performance is worse. Since the appointment of Borja Jiménez, the team has forgotten how to win away from home. This season, they have played eight away matches without a victory, managing to draw just five of them.
Leganés’ last triumph as visitors in La Liga was way back in July 2020, a 2-0 win over Athletic Club. Since then, the team has stumbled repeatedly, failing to find consistency when playing outside their own stadium.
That said, it doesn’t mean Barcelona will have it easy. At times, Leganés has shown defensive resilience. Their five draws away this season prove they can frustrate opponents, even when they’re struggling.
The numbers don't lie
History is clearly on Barcelona's side in this matchup. Playing at home against Leganés, Barça has won every single game since 2016. In addition, in their last two meetings, Barcelona didn't concede a single goal, which underlines the offensive struggles of Leganés.
Another important statistic is in favor of Barça: their performance against teams in the lower part of the table. Even during rough patches, Barcelona rarely drops points when facing sides fighting relegation.
A win in this match would lift the Catalans to 41 points, putting pressure on Real Madrid once more and reasserting Barcelona's title ambitions. To Leganés, a draw could be a lifeline in their battle to keep their heads above water.