(Football news) After two hurtful back to back losses Barcelona bounced back with a regulation 1-0 win away at Real Sociedad. They now prepare to host 14th placed Rayo Vallecano to try and stay in the title race even though it is unlikely. A win could take them 12 points behind leaders Real Madrid with 5 games left. A loss however would practically end their title hopes for this season and could also put their top 4 place in jeopardy.

The entire Barcelona defence suffered injuries in the last game. Gerard Pique, Dani Alves and Ronald Araujo had to be taken off before full time. The trio is unlikely to be involved in the game while Jordi Alba should be fine. Pedri, Sergi Roberto and Samuel Umtiti are still out of contention while Ansu Fati could be back on the bench. Barcelona may have to deploy a back line of Alba, Oscar Mingueza, Eric Garcia and Sergino Dest which would invite a lot of trouble for Marc Andre Ter Stegan. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Ferran Torres and Ousmane Dembele should start up front with Gavi, Sergio Busquets and Frenkie De Jong in midfield. 

Barcelona are expected to have a lot of possession but Xavi will be hoping that Barcelona could create more clear cut chances and be more of a goal threat. Sergi Guariola and Radamel Falcao will be goal threats for Rayo Vallecano. Goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski will be very busy throughout the 90 minutes. Rayo will definitely look to soak up all the pressure and try to play on the counter attack. 

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