FC Barcelona returns to La Liga action after the international break, facing Osasuna in a rescheduled match originally planned for March 8. The game was postponed due to the passing of Barcelona doctor Carles Minarro Garcia. Both clubs objected to the rescheduled date due to fixture congestion, but La Liga upheld the decision.
Barcelona will be without Brazilian striker Raphinha and Uruguayan defender Ronald Araujo, as both were on international duty in South America just days before the match. Raphinha played in Brazil`s defeat to Argentina, while Araujo featured in Uruguay`s draw with Bolivia.
Hansi Flick`s Barcelona currently leads La Liga on goal difference, tied on points with Real Madrid but with a game in hand. This match against Osasuna is Barcelona`s 28th La Liga game of the season. Following this, Barcelona will host Girona on Sunday, while Real Madrid plays Leganes on Saturday.
Match Details
- Date: Thursday, Mar. 27
- Location: Estadio Olimpico Lluís Companys, Barcelona, Spain
- Watch: ESPN+
- Odds: Barcelona -360; Draw +500; Osasuna +800
Previous Meeting
Barcelona and Osasuna last played on September 28, 2024, at El Sadar, Osasuna`s stadium. Osasuna won 4-2, ending Barcelona`s perfect start to the season under their new manager. Flick had previously won all seven La Liga matches.
Barcelona Team News
Hansi Flick confirmed that Raphinha and Araujo will miss the game. He mentioned their long travels back from international duty affected their recovery. Flick announced that Inigo Martinez and Eric Garcia will start in defense due to Araujo`s absence, with Cubarsi starting on the bench to rest but available if needed.
Osasuna Team News
Osasuna coach Vicente Moreno told the media that every game is different, and they will adapt their approach for Barcelona. He stated they have a clear plan but acknowledged Barcelona`s strength, especially at home, which can disrupt opponents` strategies.
Predicted Lineups
FC Barcelona: Szczesny; Kounde, Garcia, Martinez, Balde; Pedri, De Jong; Yamal, Olmo, Fermin; Lewandowski.
Osasuna: Herrera; Areso, Catena, Herrando, Cruz; Moncayola, Ibanez, Oroz; Ru. Garcia, Gomez, Budimir.
Player to Watch
Lamine Yamal, FC Barcelona: Yamal will be crucial for Barcelona in Raphinha`s absence. He has scored six La Liga goals this season and recently scored for Spain against Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals.
Key Storyline
Barcelona Adapting to Absences: Flick highlighted the challenge of playing without key players like Raphinha and Araujo shortly after the international break. Barcelona sought a postponement due to players returning late, but La Liga refused. A win would give Barcelona a significant lead over Real Madrid and Atletico de Madrid in the league table.
Match Prediction
Despite missing key players, Barcelona is favored to win at home and increase pressure on Real Madrid, who play Leganes on Saturday. Prediction: FC Barcelona 2, Osasuna 0.
Adrian Whitmore 
Benedict Kingsley