In 2008/2009, Barcelona completed the best first half of the season in La Liga history, with a remarkable 50 points from 16 wins, two draws and one defeat. This season, after 17 games, Barcelona have already racked up 46 points. Simple maths indicates us that if Barcelona beat Deportivo at Riazor and Malaga at Camp Nou, Barcelona will have 52 points at the end of the first half of the season, thus breaking the previous record!
As if playing for Barcelona weren't motivation enough, Pep and his men have yet another incentive to win at the Riazor tomorrow. On paper, Deportivo shouldn't be able to trouble Barcelona, but nothing can be taken for granted in such a competitive league as La Liga. Barcelona player will have to put in their best effort as always in order to collect the three points.
Pep has been rather impressed with new signing Ibrahim Afellay and the Dutch will probably be given an opportunity tomorrow, either as a starter or as a substitute. This is the start of a very difficult month for Barcelona, with the Copa del Rey and the beginning of the Champions League knockout rounds. It's time for Pep Guardiola and his players to show, once again, the metal they're made of. If they can maintain their focus, another sextuple is definitely on the cards.