Liga BBVA: Predictions for Round 16 Fixtures of La Liga

La Liga returns this weekend for Round 16 fixtures. Barcelona is currently in Japan on Club World Cup duty so Real Madrid has a chance to regain the No. 1 position if they can beat Sevilla.

Here are the predictions for Round 16 of La Liga.

Mallorca vs. Getafe

Both teams are coming off wins last weekend, but they are still not that far from the relegation zone. Getafe's win over Barcelona seem to have lifted the team a little over the last few weeks, but their away record in the league has been dismal.

Prediction: Mallorca win 1-0

Sporting Gijon vs. Espanyol

Sporting put together a solid outing to get past Rayo Vallecano last weekend and Espanyol gave Atletico Madrid a good, and surprising, beating.

Both teams will have confidence but Sporting's home advantage might give them an edge.

Prediction: Draw 2-2

Athletic Bilbao vs. Real Zaragoza

Athletic Bilbao were held last week against a team only one spot ahead of Real Zaragoza on the in the league standings.

Like Bilbao's recent opponent, Racing Santander, Zaragoza has been unable to get a win away from home. They may note though that Athletic Bilbao did not get all three points at home. Still, it would be hard to say a draw is expected in this game.

Prediction: Athletic Bilbao win 3-1

Sevilla vs. Real Madrid

Sevilla have been okay in the league but they face a Real Madrid team who will be looking to put a stamp on the game and the league after last weeks "Clasico."

Real Madrid has been pretty strong away from home as you would except, but Sevilla has been solid at home. Something has to give. 

Prediction: Real Madrid win 2-1

Atletico Madrid vs. Real Betis

Atletico Madrid suffered a setback last week at the hands of Espanyol. They face a Real Betis side that will have gained some confidence after beating Valencia at home.

Prediction: Atletico Madri win 2-0

Granada CF vs. Levante

Levante is still in the top five in the league after beating Sevilla at home last week. They should have no problem getting past Granada.

Prediction: Levante win 3-1

Osasuna vs. Villarreal

Osasuna have done well in the league so far and can solidify a position in the European spots with by picking up more points at home. Osasuna is unbeaten at home and Villarreal have not won away from home. That doesn't change here.

Prediction: Osasuna win 1-0

Racing Santander vs. Real Sociedad

Only three points separate these teams despite Racing Santander being 19th and Real Sociedad being 13th.

Prediction: Draw 2-2

Valencia vs. Malaga

Valencia will be looking for a win here to stay within the top two. This Malaga squad needs to start proving itself by getting results when it matters.

It will be a tight game but Valencia is always tough at the Mestalla so they should pull through.

Prediction: Valencia win 3-2