Atletico Madrid vs Celta Vigo Betting Tips & Predictions

Atleti’s title challenge ended in disappointing fashion last weekend when they slipped to a defeat at bottom club Levante. Perhaps the sheer volume of games had an effect but they should be fresher here having had a rare midweek off. The Champions League final is still a fortnight away and Diego Simeone has demanded a strong showing so they at least go into that game with a win under their belts. He has a fully fit squad but must decide whether to rest players so to avoid injuries or not. The problem with doing that would be that his stars would have gone 3 full weeks without a match by the time the Madrid derby in Milan comes around which wouldn’t be ideal either. Therefore we may see a mix of first teamers and back-up players in the side that starts against Celta.

The Galicians have already won at the Vicente Calderon this year when they knocked Atleti out of the Copa del Rey. They are battling it out with Athletic for 5th place so will want the win that would guarantee them a place in the group stage of the Europa League rather than the qualifying rounds. Celta have only lost 1 of their 9 games since they were hammered 7-1 on their last visit to this city to play Real Madrid.

Picking a bet for this game is really all about determining what side Atleti will put out as the likes of Matias Kranevitter, Thomas Partey and Oliver Torres aren’t up to the level of their regular midfielders but could all start here. The odds are likely to fluctuate considerably in the hours leading up to kick-off when Simeone names his team. Even at full strength with something to play for, this would be a tough game for Atleti and with Celta playing well, they certainly could get something here so backing Double Chance – Celta Vigo or Draw at 17/20 might be the way to go.