Tonight is by far and away the biggest game of the season so far. We’ve already had a tough introduction back to club football after the international break, with a game every 2-3 days. This time around, we’ve fortunately had an extra days rest after what was a leggy and fatigued performance on the past weekend. And that was definitely needed, ahead of what is an absolutely huge fixture later tonight. Live from 9pm local time, at the Estadi Olympic Lluis Companys, it’s Barça up against Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the Champions League Quarter finals.
It’s going to be a very tough game, and at the end of it, we’re only halfway through the tie. There’s still going to be a long way to go, but nevertheless, it’s going to be a tricky european night for this team. The home support is going to be absolutely vital, so lets jump straight into the preview.
A Quick Look at our opponent:
In terms of our opponent, similarly to the round of 16 stage, we have already faced Dortmund this season. Not so long ago in the league phase, away at the Signal Iduna Park. It was a crazy night with a comedy of errors from both sides, but a lot has changed since then. Even in such a relatively short amount of time. The main thing is the coach.
Dortmund let go of Sahin a short while ago and appointed Nico Kovac as their nee head coach. A much more experienced coach, with a distinctive style of play. And he has had an effect on them, putting them on a decent run of form coming into tonight’s game. But in games like this, form isn’t a factor.
They will be without Schlotterbeck at the back which is a huge loss for them. Hell miss the rest of the season due to a knee injury. And they’ll also be without Sabitzer too. They will however be counting on Karim Adeyemi, who wasn’t present in our last game with them in the league phase. He really will be a test for us, especially with that pace.
Predicted lineup:
As regards to us, there’s no doubt about it, we will go strong. After a few important days off to rest and reset, I’ve got no doubt that Flick will go with the strongest lineup. Again, the only real question for me is in the midfield.
Of course Pedri is going to start. But will he be alongside Frenkie De Jong, or will it be Gavi in the pivot role. He’s been in brilliant form recently, scored on the weekend and has really been building towards getting back to the Gavi we all know and love, after a few months of tough form. So he has a case to start, no doubt. I do however believe it will be Frenkie. And that means Fermin will play at the number 10 position.
And his runs into the box and in behind will be so important for us too.
My starting 11:
Tek
Kounde- Cubarsi- Iñigo- Balde
Pedri- Frenkie
Yamal- Fermin- Raphinha
Lewandowski
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