Barcelona vs Cordoba
European Giants welcome Cordoba to the Nou Camp. Barcelona suffered last week, dropping two points which allowed Real Madrid to widen the gap at the top. Real Madrid have their focus on the Club World Championships, and Barcelona must pile on the pressure. Cordoba have improved their form recently, but they face a different kind of test against the likes of Messi, Suarez and Neymar. I expect Barcelona to get back to winning ways in convincing fashion against the relegation candidates.
Prediction 3-0
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Athletic Bilbao vs Atletico Madrid
Atletico Madrid’s form is not consistent enough to replicate their achievements last season. Last week epitomised that fact and they’ve got to get better if they wish to mount another title challenge. Real Madrid look unstoppable at the moment, but that can change in a heartbeat and they must be prepared to capitalise on any opportunity that may arise. Athletic Bilbao sit comfortably in mid-table, but that won’t satisfy the club. They are looking to challenge for European places, and anything gained from this fixture will be a fantastic gain. I believe that Atletico Madrid have the capacity to beat anyone on their day, and I am backing them to win in this fixture.
Prediction 0-1
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Eibar vs Valencia
With Sevilla not playing this weekend, Valencia have a big opportunity to pile on the pressure for that elite top 4 spot. The top 3 look likely to remain the same till the end of the season, and Valencia will be extremely determined to fight till the end for that lucrative Champions League spot. Eibar have exceeded expectations so far, and have impressed many pundits along the way. For this reason, Valencia will have to be on top of their game but I expect them to recognise this opportunity and secure 3 points on the road.
Prediction 1-2
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Mainz vs Bayern Munich
It’s all becoming a little too easy for Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga. Another midweek win has propelled them further away from the chasing pack and Pep Guardiola will be keen to ensure his troops avoid becoming overly complacent and end an incredible year on a high. Having conceded just three goals in sixteen league games this season, I’m backing Bayern to win to nil here.
Prediction 0-2
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Weder Bremen vs Borussia Dortmund
This is a true 6-pointer. At the start of the season however, few would have thought that this would be a relegation dog fight however. After yet another drab home draw to Wolfsburg, Dortmund are in danger of ending the year rooted to the foot of the Bundesliga as a victory for the home side would see them leapfrog the visitors in 16th place. Dortmund have been particularly poor on their travels this season and I can’t see their away form improving on Saturday.
Prediction 1-1
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PSG vs Montpellier
PSG came from behind in midweek to beat Ajaccio 3-1 and end a two game losing streak. Despite their blip however they still remain just a point off leaders Marseille and victory over their opponents at the weekend will see them go top of Ligue 1, albeit until Marseille play their match on Sunday. With Ibrahimovic, Cavani and Lavezzi all set to start, the reigning champions boast a tremendous amount of fire power and I’m expecting the Parisiens to blow away the visitors in their final game of 2014.
Prediction 3-0
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