The Women's Champions League is set to witness a spectacular showdown as Barcelona Women prepare to host Brann Women at the Estadi Johan Cruyff on the 28th of March, 2024.
With both teams gearing up for the second leg of the quarter-finals, the stage is set for a battle of prowess, strategy, and sheer willpower. Barcelona, the reigning European champions, currently hold a slender advantage with a 2-1 lead from the first leg, setting the tone for an electrifying match.
Current Form
Barcelona Women's Current Form
Barcelona Women have displayed formidable form this season, marching unbeaten across competitions.
Fresh off a comprehensive 3-0 victory against arch-rivals Real Madrid, the Catalan giants are on a seven-match winning spree, boasting an impressive tally of 26 goals scored while conceding a mere three.
This run of victories, combined with their historical home strength—having not suffered a home defeat in five years—paints Barcelona as the clear favourites entering the clash.
Brann Women's Current Form
Conversely, Brann Women have carved their path to the quarter-finals with a commendable second-place finish in their Champions League group stage debut.
Despite a heart-wrenching 2-1 loss in the first leg against Barcelona, the Norwegian outfit's resilience and ability to challenge European heavyweights is evident.
With no fixture over the weekend, Brann had ample time to regroup and strategise for the monumental task of overturning the deficit against a side as seasoned as Barcelona.
Team News
Barcelona Women Team News
Barcelona's lineup might witness some changes due to the absence of goalkeeper Gemma Font and defenders Mapi Leon and Jana Fernandez.
However, the expected return of Lucy Bronze and Mariona Caldentey could bolster the squad's depth and versatility.
Caroline Graham Hansen, riding high on a goalscoring streak, will be a crucial figure in Barcelona's attack.
Brann Women Team News
On the other side, Brann will be without Nanne Ruskanen and Rikke Nygard due to long-term injuries.
Yet, the potential inclusion of Amalie Eikeland, who made a significant impact off the bench in the first leg, could inject some much-needed dynamism into Brann's forward play.
Scoreline Prediction
Given Barcelona's stellar form and home advantage, coupled with Brann's tenacity but relative inexperience at this level, a 3-0 victory for Barcelona Women seems plausible.
Such a result would not only underscore Barcelona's dominance but also highlight the gap Brann needs to bridge to truly compete with the elite of European football.
FAQ
What time does the match start? The match is scheduled for 5.45 pm UK time on March 28, 2024.
Where is the match being played? The match will take place at the Estadi Johan Cruyff in Barcelona.
What was the score in the first leg? Barcelona won the first leg with a scoreline of 2-1.
Who are the key players to watch? For Barcelona, Caroline Graham Hansen and Aitana Bonmati are key players, while Brann will rely on Amalie Eikeland to hopefully make an impact.
Can Brann Women overturn the deficit? While it's a daunting challenge, football is unpredictable, and Brann will aim to defy the odds to advance in the tournament.
Barcelona 
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