Barcelona will host Borussia Dortmund in their upcoming Champions League match. Despite Barcelona`s strong position in La Liga and Dortmund`s mid-table standing in the Bundesliga, Champions League knockout games often level the playing field. Dortmund`s experience reaching last season`s final will be crucial, but containing Barcelona`s formidable attack will be a significant challenge for their coach.
Barcelona boasts a potent attacking trio of Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha, alongside other scoring threats. While Barcelona`s defense might concede opportunities, Dortmund aiming for a high-scoring match could be risky, as Barcelona excels in open play.
Maximilian Beier, Dortmund`s exciting young player, could be a game-changer. With impressive recent stats, he can potentially unlock opportunities for his team. While attention is often on Serhou Guirassy, Beier`s ability to exploit space could be vital.
Beier, originally a central forward, has adapted to a wing position and become a key weapon for Dortmund. Facing Jules Kounde will be a tough test for the young German, highlighting the challenges and legend-making opportunities within the Champions League.
Ultimately, Dortmund`s scoring will be irrelevant if they cannot neutralize Raphinha and Lewandowski, who have collectively scored 20 Champions League goals this season. Barcelona`s scoring form in both La Liga and the Champions League is strong, and Emre Can must stabilize Dortmund`s defense against a barrage of shots. The match outcome will hinge on which team effectively capitalizes on their scoring chances.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Barcelona: Wojciech Szczesny, Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsi, Alejandro Balde, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha
Borussia Dortmund: Gregor Kobel, Waldemar Anton, Emre Can, Ramy Bensebaini, Julian Ryerson, Carney Chukwuemeka, Felix Nmecha, Julian Brandt, Maximilian Beier, Serhou Guirassy, Karim Adeyemi
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, April 9
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys — Barcelona, Spain
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Barcelona -290; Draw +440; Borussia Dortmund +650
Benedict Kingsley