Levante vs Barcelona Prediction & Betting Tips (23 August)

Levante’s return to LaLiga has been anything but timid. After clinching the Segunda Division title last season, Julian Calero’s side has shown flashes of resilience and attacking flair. Despite a narrow 2-1 defeat to Alavés in their opening fixture, the Frogs demonstrated their ability to compete at this level, with Jeremy Toljan getting on the scoresheet. Their summer transfer activity has been bold, bringing in eight new faces including Jon Ander Olasagasti from Real Sociedad and Matias Moreno from Fiorentina. However, injuries to Olasagasti, Alfonso Pastor, and Kervin Arriaga have slightly dampened their momentum. Expect Roger Brugue and Ivan Romero to lead the charge against Barcelona, with Brugue coming off an 11-goal season.

Barcelona, meanwhile, enters the match riding a wave of confidence after a commanding 3-0 win over Mallorca. Hansi Flick’s tactical blueprint remains intact—high pressing, fluid attacking transitions, and a ruthless offside trap. The squad looks sharp, with Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, and Raphinha all finding the net in the season opener. Despite the absence of captain Marc-André ter Stegen due to back surgery, new signing Joan Garcia has stepped up between the posts. Marcus Rashford, acquired on loan from Manchester United, made his debut off the bench and adds depth to an already potent frontline. Flick’s second season at the helm is off to a promising start, and the Catalans are eager to defend their domestic treble.

The tactical battle promises intrigue. Levante’s compact midfield and counter-attacking setup could exploit Barcelona’s high defensive line, especially with Toljan and Brugue capable of stretching the flanks. However, Barcelona’s midfield trio of De Jong, Pedri, and Dani Olmo offers control and creativity that could overwhelm Levante’s structure. The visitors will likely dominate possession, but Levante’s recent scoring consistency—netting in 9 of their last 10 matches—suggests they won’t go quietly. With both teams showing a tendency to score and concede, the match is primed for drama.

While most predictions lean toward a Barcelona win, this fixture has the makings of a surprise. Levante’s home form and recent reinforcements give them a puncher’s chance, especially if they can capitalize on set pieces and transitional moments. Barcelona’s firepower should still see them through, but not without a scare. A 2-1 scoreline in favor of the visitors feels plausible—Levante to strike first, Barcelona to respond with clinical precision. It’s a scoreline that respects Levante’s resurgence while acknowledging Barcelona’s championship pedigree.