Soccer predictions based on statistical models

Real Madrid faces Barcelona in Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh in the final of the Spanish Super Cup. The El Classico is a fact now – the two biggest Spanish teams are going head to head. Let’s preview it in our soccer predictions based on statistical models.

 

Real Madrid had to play extra time against Atletico Madrid, but went through after a dramatic 5-3 win on Thursday. The regular time in Riyadh ended with an exciting 3-3 draw. Three defenders scored for Los Blancos before the extra time as Antonio Rudiger, Ferland Mendy and Dani Carvajal all found the net. The two decisive goals after the regular time were scored by Joselu and Brahim Diaz – two players who entered the pitch from the bench.

 

It’s not clear Carlo Anceloti would use the same line-up against Barcelona as well. He has some options at the bench, too. For example, Toni Kroos could be returning in the starting eleven. The German midfielders knows how to play in finals like these.

 

Barcelona had to eliminate Osasuna in the other 1/2-final of the Super Cup. Barca scored twice in the second half and enjoyed a comfortable 2-0 win against the Pamplonians. Robert Lewandowski and Yamine Lamal scored for Xavi’s team. Some might say that Barcelona didn’t impress with their performance, but they did the job.

 

It seems that Raphinha is missing the Classico against Real Madrid. The Brazilian winger injured himself during the 1/2-final against Osasuna. It means that Xavi will have to decide who’s going to replace him. Ferran Torres, Joao Felix and Yamine Lamal are all options for the head coach.

 

Pedri could return in the line-up against Real Madrid. He returned from injury against Osasuna and played in the second half.

 

That’s the soccer predictions based on statistical models for the Super Cup final between Real Madrid and Barcelona. Good luck!