Borussia Dortmund
Borussia Dortmund comes into this match after a 1-1 draw with Borussia Mönchengladbach in their recent Bundesliga outing.
Dominating 60% possession and recording 15 attempts, Jamie Gittens found the back of the net in the 65th minute. However, Kevin Stöger’s equalizer denied Dortmund all three points.
The solidity of the team’s defense has been one of the high points, with only four goals conceded in their last six games. This will be put to test as they face a powerful Barcelona attack.
Barcelona
The last La Liga match saw Barcelona play a thrilling 2-2 with Real Betis. Robert Lewandowski and Ferrán Torres showed their attacking potential, but a last-minute equalizer from Assane Diao ensured Betis took home a share of the points.
Barcelona have been involved in high-scoring matches of late, with an average of 3.5 goals in their last six outings. How well they can keep this rhythm going is up for a challenge against the organized defense of Dortmund.
Head-to-Head
The last time both sides met was on November 27, 2019, during the Champions League. Barcelona were the winners as the score was 3-1 to them. Luis Suárez, Lionel Messi, and Antoine Griezmann found the net for Barcelona while the only goal for Dortmund was scored by their Jadon Sancho.
Given that there is history between both of them, this, too, will be an exciting one to watch.
Dortmund are expected to lineup in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Gregor Kobel in goal. Their backline may feature Julian Ryerson, Emre Can, Nico Schlotterbeck, and Ramy Bensebaini. Marcel Sabitzer and Felix Nmecha may anchor the midfield while Donyell Malen, Julian Brandt, Jamie Gittens, and Serhou Guirassy lead the attack.
Barcelona
Meanwhile, the guests have to deal with an injury crisis that will make without Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Marc-André ter Stegen and Marc Bernal.
Manager Hansi Flick should therefore rely on a 4-2-3-1, with Inaki Pena on the posts. Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, and Alejandro Balde could form the rear defense, while Pedri and Marc Casado anchor the middle of the park. Upfront, Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski seem a probable quartet.