In the wake of a mere single point in their last two fixtures, FC Barcelona finds themselves at a crossroads. The urgency to rebound looms large as Xavi's squad trails nine points behind Girona and seven behind Real Madrid. Their redemption journey commences on Wednesday against Almeria, a team currently languishing at the bottom of the La Liga table with five points and zero wins this season. Let's delve into the essentials:

Scoping the Match: Key Details and Odds

Date & Time: Wednesday, Dec. 20 | 1 p.m. ET
Location: Estadio Olimpico Lluis Companys, Barcelona, Spain
TV: None | Live Stream: ESPN+
Betting Odds: FC Barcelona -800; Draw +750; Almeria +1800

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Team Updates: Navigating Injuries and Suspensions

FC Barcelona:Barcelona faces the challenge without key players, including the sidelined Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Inigo Martinez, Marcos Alonso, and Gavi. Adding to the hurdles, Frankie De Jong serves a one-match suspension following his fifth booking against Valencia. The potential starting XI reads: Pena; Cancelo, Araujo, Kounde, Balde; Gundogan, Romeu, Pedri; Raphinha, Felix, Lewandowski.

Almeria:The visitors grapple with an extensive injury list featuring Marko Milovanovic, Ibrahima Kone, Marc Pubill, Martin Svidersky, and Luis Suarez. Additionally, Lucas Robertone, who suffered a shoulder problem against Mallorca, is doubly absent due to both injury and suspension. The anticipated starting XI includes Maximiano; Montes, Gonzalez, Chumi; Pozo, Lopy, Baba, Akieme; Arribas, Embarba, Baptistao.

Barcelona Lineup Prediction:

Insights and Prognosis

Xavi's brigade stands at a pivotal juncture, and the clash with Almeria offers a prime opportunity for resurgence. The prediction leans toward FC Barcelona asserting dominance with a 2-0 victory. As the football spectacle unfolds at Estadio Olimpico Lluis Companys, all eyes are on the Blaugrana's pursuit of redemption, aiming to bridge the gap in the La Liga standings.