Barcelona vs Benfica: Araujo, Lewandowski Set to Start in 4-2-3-1 Formation
Barcelona Look to Seal Quarter-Final Spot Against Benfica: Lineup News & Updates
FC Barcelona will aim to secure their place in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals when they host SL Benfica tomorrow evening. The Blaugrana hold a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg in Portugal, thanks to Raphinha’s goal, despite playing most of the match with 10 men.
With the tie still in the balance, Barcelona will need to finish the job at home in front of their fans at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. However, it won’t be easy as Benfica are expected to provide a tough challenge. Emotionally, the team is still reeling from the recent loss of Dr. Carles Minarro, which led to the postponement of their match against Osasuna.
Barcelona will be bolstered by the return of Robert Lewandowski, who missed the Osasuna game due to fatigue and discomfort. However, Pau Cubarsi is suspended, and Marc-André ter Stegen, Marc Bernal, and Andreas Christensen are sidelined due to injuries.
Here’s how Barcelona could line up as they look to progress to the quarter-finals, where they could face Lille or Borussia Dortmund:
Defence
Wojciech Szczesny will keep his spot in goal after an outstanding performance in the first leg. With Cubarsi suspended, captain Ronald Araujo is set to take his place in defence. Araujo, undefeated this season, performed well after coming on in the first leg and will likely partner Inigo Martínez in the centre of defence. Martínez will need to be cautious, as he is just one yellow card away from suspension for the potential quarter-final.
Alejandro Balde, who recovered from a knock sustained in the first leg, is expected to start at left-back, replacing Gerard Martin, who was slated to play against Osasuna before the match was postponed.
Midfield
The midfield will see several changes from the lineup that was planned for the Osasuna game. Pedri, who was named Man of the Match in the first leg, will return to play a pivotal role alongside Frenkie de Jong in the centre of the park. Gavi and Marc Casado will drop to the bench.
Dani Olmo, who was substituted after Cubarsi’s red card in the first leg, is expected to start as the No. 10, playing ahead of Gavi and Fermin Lopez.
Attack
Lewandowski, now fully fit, will start as the centre-forward after being left out of the Osasuna match. Raphinha and Lamine Yamal will once again occupy the wide positions, looking to create danger and possibly seal the tie with an early goal.
Barcelona are ready to battle for a spot in the Champions League quarter-finals and will need a strong performance to overcome Benfica and keep their hopes alive for European glory.
