Barcelona was poor in the El Clasico 2019-20 against Real Madrid and will be eager to put that behind them when they take on Deportivo Alaves at home. The Catalonians have the chance to open up a three-point lead over arch-rivals Real Madrid albeit temporarily. Ernesto Valverde was rarely challenged en route the La Liga title last season but this term, his side will have to step up a gear or two if they are to defend the title. Opposition Deportivo Alves are languishing at 14th in the table and without a win in four. They will need to put in a solid performance at Cam Nou to survive the battle. Year Ender 2019: Lionel Messi Starts and Ends Decade As 'The Best'. 

Sergio Busquets is likely to miss the game due to fever while Ansu Fati is a major doubt with a hip injury. Ivan Rakitic has done well in the opportunities he has got in the last few games and should continue in the playing eleven. Frenkie De Jong and Arturo Vidal will flank Rakitic in the middle and try and dominate possession for the Catalonians. Lionel Messi was remarkably quiet against the Los Blancos and Deportivo Alaves may find themselves at the wrong end of a solid response from the Argentine superstar.

Tomas Pina is a long term absentee for Alaves with a fractured leg but apart from the experienced midfielder, everyone is fit for the Barcelona trip. Alex Vidal returns to face his former club and he will have added motivation to do well here. Joselu leads the attack for the visitors with Lucas Perez in support. Deportivo Alaves should opt for an attacking 4-4-2 formation with Pere Pons and Manu Garcia as the box to box midfielder. Barcelona has been victorious in their last five encounters against Deportivo Alaves and should have a little problem adding to their winning run.

When is FC Barcelona vs Deportivo Alaves, La Liga 2019-20 Football Match Schedule (Date, Time and Venue Details)?

The La Liga 2019-20 clash between Barcelona and Deportivo Alaves will be played at Anoeta in San Sebastian. The match will take place on December 21, 2019 (Saturday) and is scheduled to start at 08:30 pm IST (Indian Standard Time).

How to Watch Live Telecast of FC Barcelona vs Deportivo Alaves, La Liga 2019-20 Football Match?

Sadly, La Liga fans will not be able to enjoy the live action of Barcelona vs Deportivo Alaves match on TV as there are no official broadcasters of La Liga 2019-20 in India

Where to Get Free Live Streaming Online of FC Barcelona vs Deportivo Alaves, La Liga 2019-20 Football Match?

Fans in India can watch the FC Barcelona vs Deportivo Alaves match live on JIO TV and GHD Sports app. La Liga's official Facebook page will also be live streaming the encounter for its online fans in India. You can also follow LatestLY for the live score updates of all La Liga 2019-20 in India.

 

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 21, 2019 06:52 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).