5 bold La Liga predictions: Atletico Madrid shock city rivals

3. Gomez leads Celta to victory in fiery Getafe encounter

Antonio Mohamed’s reign has started with a bang as Celta Vigo have been one of the most exciting sides in the division, picking up nine points from six games with just one loss. Mohamed’s ambitious high-pressing style suits the squad at his disposal, which features weapons such as Maxi Gomez, Iago Aspas and Pione Sisto, as well as intelligent midfielders — Stanislav Lobotka and Fran Beltran — capable of covering the large distances required in transition.

Their main issue is keeping clean sheets. They only have one so far this season. Getafe, in contrast, have three in five games. Their other two matches were 2-0 losses to Atletico and Real Madrid, so they aren’t easy to break down. A significant part of their defensive solidity is their willingness to commit tactical fouls to break up opposition rhythm and attacking play. They already have 19 yellow cards and a red while Celta have 16 and one respectively.

Therefore, this match should be a clash of styles as well as a heated encounter. Both sides are used to battling for results which means this will be well-contested. Getafe are a side willing to concede possession and sit in a low block, so Celta’s main task will be breaking down their defensive shape.

The flanks should be the best area of attack due to Getafe’s narrow 4-4-2 shape with tricky players such as Sofiane Boufal and Sisto capable of causing havoc. Gomez should profit from this approach because he is a major aerial threat as well as a clinical finisher. Celticos goal against Valencia came from this scenario — David Junca whipped in a ball for Aspas to head home as Gomez and Dennis Eckert occupied the other defenders in the box.

Los Che exposed their frailties when transitioning into their defensive shape, so the Azulones can definitely cause issues. However, Celta’s attacking firepower should see them outscore an organized but limited Getafe side.