Barcelona will host Borussia Dortmund in their upcoming Champions League match. While Barcelona dominates La Liga and Dortmund is currently mid-table in the Bundesliga, Champions League knockout games are always unpredictable. Dortmund, having reached the Champions League final last season, has the experience, but stopping Barcelona`s potent attack will be a significant challenge.
Barcelona boasts a formidable attacking trio of Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha, supported by numerous other scoring threats. Although Barcelona`s defense might concede opportunities, Dortmund might struggle if they try to engage in a high-scoring game, as Barcelona excels in open play.
Maximilian Beier, Dortmund`s exciting young player, could be a game-changer. He has been in excellent form recently, contributing significantly in goals and assists. While attention might be on Serhou Guirassy due to his impressive goal-scoring record, Beier could exploit the space created and become a key player for Dortmund.
Beier, originally a central forward, has adapted to a winger role and become a dangerous weapon for Dortmund. He is expected to face Jules Kounde, which will be a tough test for the young German, but that`s the nature of the Champions League, where every match is challenging and opportunities for legendary performances arise.
Ultimately, Dortmund`s scoring ability will be irrelevant if they can`t contain Raphinha and Lewandowski, who have collectively scored 20 goals in the Champions League this season. Barcelona has been scoring freely in both La Liga and the Champions League. Emre Can will need to stabilize Dortmund`s defense, which will face numerous shots, but Dortmund will likely have counter-attacking chances. The team that capitalizes on their opportunities more effectively will win the match.
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
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
Dominic Ashworth