Barcelona take on Italian stalwarts Inter Milan tonight at 8PM.
The teams come into the game in contrasting form, Barcelona have won all of their last 3 and have just won their 32nd Copa Del Ray against historic rivals Real Madrid 3-2.
The Catalonian club also have a deep-rooted history in the Champions League having won 5 in their history and they will certainly be looking to add to their collection to draw level with Bayern’s number of 6 who are 3rd in the most successful Champions League clubs.
Barca will be without star striker Robert Lewandowski and explosive left-back Alejandro Balde until early next month who will be big misses but they possess more than enough quality in other areas to pose Inter a problem. Young winger Lamine Yamal and former Leeds star Raphinha, who has the most goal contributions in the Champions League this season, have been key for Barcelona this season and their speed and dribbling ability is vital on the flanks.
Inter Milan have suffered losses to Bologna, Roma and their Milan rivals in recent weeks not scoring in any. They also have not kept a clean sheet in their last 9, posing questions of their defence which has previously been such a strong part of their game. The Nerazurri need a big response to combat this shaky end of season form, and a big away win against an in-from Barcelona could provide them just that.
Some of Inter Milan’s key players include Argentinian striker Lautaro Martinez who has 8 goals in the Champions League this season, he has an excellent partnership with Marcus Thuram up front in Inzaghi’s 3-5-2 and the two should be able to hurt Barcelona’s youthful defence. Midfielder Nicolo Barella is probably Inter’s best player, his box-to-box nature and quality on the ball make him one of the most well rounded midfielders in the world.
The game will take place at Barcelona’s rented stadium the Estadi Olimpic Lluis at 8PM and broadcast on TNT Sports.