Barcelona will host Borussia Dortmund in their upcoming Champions League match. Despite Barcelona`s strong position in La Liga and Dortmund`s lower standing in the Bundesliga, Champions League knockout stages are unpredictable. Dortmund`s experience reaching last season`s final will be tested as they face Barcelona`s potent attack.
Barcelona boasts a formidable attacking trio of Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha, supported by numerous other scoring threats. While Barcelona`s defense might concede opportunities, Dortmund should avoid an open, high-scoring game, as Barcelona excels in such scenarios.
Maximilian Beier, Dortmund`s promising 22-year-old, could be a key player. With strong recent form (two goals and two assists in the last two games, and impressive season stats), he can create opportunities. While Serhou Guirassy is a primary focus for defenses, this might give Beier space to perform.
Beier, originally a central striker, has adapted to a wing position and become a significant threat for Dortmund. A likely matchup against Barcelona`s Jules Kounde will be a tough test for the young German, highlighting the challenging nature of Champions League football, where players prove their legendary status.
Dortmund`s scoring ability will be irrelevant if they can`t contain Barcelona`s Raphinha and Lewandowski, who have a combined 20 Champions League goals this season. Barcelona`s prolific scoring in both La Liga and Champions League requires Emre Can to solidify Dortmund`s defense, which will face many shots. However, Dortmund will have counter-attacking opportunities, and capitalizing on these will be crucial.
Predicted 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
