Barcelona enters Saturday's match against Athletic Bilbao in a rather comfortable situation.
Even though they are just three points ahead of Atletico Madrid for the top spot in the Spanish League, they are now a full 11 points clear of Real Madrid and have all but guaranteed the front runner position to win the title. More importantly, both Madrid sides are going after each other in what could potentially create more points for Barcelona if both sides draw or Real beats Atletico.
Meanwhile, coach Tito Vilanova can play his big stars for the Bilbao clash without having to worry about Wednesday's UCL match. Barcelona has already booked the top spot in Group G and can afford to send out its reserves against Benfica. Meanwhile Messi will get a chance to continue his historic run toward 86 goals in year. He has already scored 82 and is now in striking range of Gerd Müller's 85 goal record. Messi has scored five goals in a match this year, so it is not out of the realm of possibility for the Argenitne to put on a show in front of his home fans and seal the record.
Meanwhile Athletic Bilbao has had a dreadful year and currently resides in 14th place with 15 points. The only bright spot for the team has been the goal scoring prowess of Aritz Aduris who has eight goals on the season. No one else has more than three.
Prediction: Barcelona should drill Bilbao, especially after what Real Madrid did a few weeks ago. Messi will score a couple to bring his total to 84. 4-0 Barca.
Start Time: 2 PM EST