La Liga October 18 Preview: Real Betis vs Barcelona & Valencia vs Athletic Club | Predictions

La Liga Matchday 9 brings two interesting fixtures for Indian football fans, with Barcelona travelling to face an in-form Real Betis before Valencia host Athletic Club at Mestalla.

Real Betis vs Barcelona

Kick-off: October 17, 10:00 PM IST

This could be one of Barcelona's tougher league tests so far.

Real Betis have made an impressive start with five wins, one draw and one defeat from seven matches, collecting 16 points. Barcelona, however, remain perfect with seven wins from seven, scoring a remarkable 31 goals while conceding only seven. Página web oficial de LALIGA | LALIGA

Betis should offer more resistance than many of Barça's recent opponents, especially at home. However, Barcelona's attacking numbers are difficult to ignore — they have registered 119 shots compared with Betis' 87. Página web oficial de LALIGA | LALIGA

Recent meetings also favour Barcelona. Barça's official records show 25 wins, eight draws and only two defeats against Betis across their meetings since 2011. FC Barcelona

Betis have enough quality to score, but keeping Barcelona quiet for the full 90 minutes looks like the bigger challenge.

Match Prediction: Barcelona to win

Goals Outlook: Over 2.5 goals

Score Tip: 1-2

Final Prediction: Real Betis 1-2 Barcelona

Valencia vs Athletic Club

Kick-off: October 18, 12:30 AM IST

Valencia have endured a difficult start to the season, collecting only four points from seven matches. They have scored just four goals while conceding 13. Athletic Club have eight points from six matches, with seven goals scored and six conceded. Página web oficial de LALIGA | LALIGA

The visitors also have an important injury concern. Athletic Club confirmed on October 1 that Nico Williams suffered a moderate muscle injury in his left rectus femoris, with his recovery depending on how the injury develops. Athletic Club

Valencia's poor attacking numbers suggest this could become a tight contest rather than an open game. Athletic are the more balanced side at present, but playing at Mestalla should give Valencia a chance to stay competitive.

Match Prediction: Athletic Club win or draw

Goals Outlook: Under 2.5 goals

Score Tip: 1-1

Final Prediction: Valencia 1-1 Athletic Club