Barcelona Vs. Osasuna Prediction: Blaugrana's Determination To Kangkangi Puncak La Liga Standings

JAKARTA - Barcelona will continue their struggle in La Liga by hosting Osasuna at the Estadi Ol Maritime Affairs LLumen Companys on Saturday night, March 8. Hansi Flick's team is currently in an impressive performance, winning six straight league wins which makes them solid at the top of the standings with 57 points from 26 matches. However, the pressure remains because Atletico Madrid are only one point adrift in second place, while Real Madrid are trailing third with a three-point difference.

The Blaugrana came to this match with high confidence after beating Real Sociedad 4-0 in La Liga's last match and winning a narrow 1-0 victory over Benfica in the first leg of the Champions League last 16. With a stronger defense and sharp attack, Barcelona seemed ready to continue their positive trend.

On the other hand, Osasuna is experiencing a difficult period. Vicente Moreno's team has not won since early February and is now in 11th position in the standings with 34 points. However, they still have a chance to compete for tickets to European competition next season, as only five points adrift of Real Betis who are in sixth position.

Osasuna came to this match after a 3-3 draw against Valencia. They had taken the lead, but failed to maintain the lead until the last minute. Their performance in the away match was also not convincing enough, but they had confidence after winning 4-2 over Barcelona in the first meeting of the season.

Barcelona still have to play without Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Marc Bernal who suffered a long-term knee injury. Andreas Christensen has recovered from a muscle injury, but not necessarily played. Meanwhile, Gavi, who missed the last two games due to illness, is most likely able to return to the squad.

Pau Cubansmen who received a red card against Benfica can still be played in this match. Ronald Araujo and Marc Casado also have the opportunity to return to the starting XI, while Dani Olmo can replace Gavi as attacking midfielder if the coach chooses not to immediately take him down from the start.

Osasuna is likely to lose Aimar Oroz who suffered a muscle injury against Valencia. Kike Barja was prepared as a substitute in attack, while Juan Cruz has the opportunity to replace Abel Bretones in left-back position. Ante Budimir, who has scored 14 goals this season, will remain a mainstay on the front lines, supported by Rubern Garc totaling and Bryan Zaragoza.

Barcelona are clearly more favored in this match. With their impressive performance in La Liga as well as full support from fans, the Blaugrana have all the capital to get the three points. However, they must remain vigilant because Osasuna proved to be able to beat them in the previous meeting.

If Barcelona were able to score a quick goal and control the game as they have done in recent matches, victory with a big margin is not impossible. However, Osasuna could put up a fierce fight if they were able to take advantage of opportunities well, especially through Budimir who is in good form.

Barcelona:Szczesny; Koundé, Araujo, Cubansmenung, Balde; Casado, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski

Osasuna:Herrera; Areso, Boyomo, Catena, Cruz; Moncawala, Torr Badminton; Rubern Garc Badminton, Barja, Zaragoza; Budimir

Score prediction: Barcelona 3-1 Osasuna