And so the second half of the season begins! In the first match of the season, back on August 29, 2010 (when Barca Blaugranes wasn't even a prospect), Barcelona travelled to Santander and easily won 3-0, with goals from Leo Messi, Andrés Iniesta and David Villa. 18 matches later, Barcelona lead the table, thanks to the best first half of the season in La Liga history, with a four point advantage over Real Madrid.
The objective is clear: extending that lead. The only way to do that is by keeping the same winning habits. Barcelona have won their last 13 La Liga matches and are only one win away from equaling their 2005/2006 record of 14 straight wins.
On paper, Racing Santander don't seem to pose a very big threat, but one can never be too confident. Barcelona will have to play at their usual level in order to guarantee a win here. Racing are involved in a very fierce relegation battle and they know that getting points at Camp Nou would give them a great edge. It's up to Barcelona to crush their hopes.
As always, the match will be covered here on Barca Blaugranes with a live match thread, in which YOU are more than invited to participate and share your views with us and other Barcelona fans. If you're not a member yet, what are you waiting for?!