Barcelona will be looking to continue their impressive Champions League campaign as they face Crvena Zvezda in Belgrade. With two dominant wins over Young Boys and Bayern Munich, the Catalan side aim for another decisive performance to solidify their standing.
Crvena Zvezda, currently struggling in their group, will look to leverage home advantage, though their defensive issues pose a significant challenge against a free-scoring Barcelona side.
Barcelona's Recent Form
Barcelona are in excellent form, having won six consecutive matches across all competitions. Notably, they triumphed 4-1 over Bayern Munich in their last Champions League fixture and have been prolific going forward, with Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski contributing heavily.
Defensively, the team has tightened up under Hansi Flick, with only minor lapses in recent weeks.
Injury and Team News
Barcelona are facing several injuries, with key players such as Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Ferran Torres, Ronald Araujo, and Andreas Christensen all sidelined.
However, with Jules Kounde back in the lineup and Raphinha in top form, they retain a strong attacking core.
Barcelona's Last Lineup
Here is how Barcelona lined up for their last match:
Crvena Zvezda's Recent Form
Crvena Zvezda's Champions League performance has been underwhelming, with three consecutive losses.
Despite a 3-0 domestic win against Vojvodina, their defence has been fragile, conceding 11 goals in the Champions League group stage so far. Their domestic record remains strong, yet they’ve struggled against tougher European opponents.
Injury and Team News
Crvena Zvezda will be without Peter Olayinka due to an Achilles injury, with Nemanja Radonjic also absent.
They will depend on Cherif Ndiaye and Bruno Duarte in attack, supported by midfielder Rade Krunic, in hopes of challenging Barcelona's defence.
Crvena Zvezda's Last Lineup
Here is how Crvena Zvezda lined up for their last match:
GK: Ilic
DEF: Young-Woo, Spajic, Djiga, Rodic
MID: Silas, Krunic, Elsnik, Maksimovic
FOR: Duarte, Ndiaye
Barcelona Player To Watch
Raphinha has been in sensational form, contributing both goals and assists. With 11 goals and nine assists in just 15 appearances, his attacking play will be key to breaking down Crvena Zvezda’s defence.
Crvena Zvezda Player To Watch
Cherif Ndiaye, with 10 goals in 14 games, will be crucial to Crvena Zvezda’s chances. His scoring ability will be tested against a resilient Barcelona defence, and he will be eager to capitalise on any opportunities.
Prediction
Given Barcelona's recent form and attacking power, they are expected to secure a comfortable win. Crvena Zvezda’s defensive struggles suggest Barcelona could score multiple times, especially with Raphinha and Lewandowski leading the attack.
Our Prediction: Crvena Zvezda 0-4 Barcelona
Betting Tips
Tip 1: Barcelona to win with a -1.5 handicap
Barcelona’s recent goal-scoring form and Crvena Zvezda’s defensive frailties make this a likely outcome.
Tip 2: Over 3.5 goals in the match
Barcelona’s attacking quality and Crvena Zvezda's vulnerabilities suggest a high-scoring encounter.
Tip 3: Raphinha to score anytime
In excellent form, Raphinha has proven effective in the Champions League and poses a significant goal threat.
