Barcelona face a nerve shredding Champions League night at the Camp Nou on Wednesday, knowing only a commanding victory over FC Copenhagen will likely secure a direct ticket to the last 16 and avoid the perilous playoff round.
Hansi Flick’s side, languishing in ninth but level with a pack of seven other teams on 13 points, need to boost their goal difference significantly in the final League Phase fixture. A simple win might not be enough; they require a statement performance.
“We have to be ruthless,” was the message from Camp Nou insiders, with the memory of last week’s chaotic 4-2 win in Prague underlining both their firepower and their fragility. The absence of Pedri (hamstring) and the suspended Frenkie de Jong robs the midfield of its usual control, placing a huge burden on Eric García as the anchor and likely handing Dani Olmo a creative start.
The major boost is the return of teen sensation Lamine Yamal from suspension. He’ll form a potent attacking trio with the in form Fermín López and Raphinha, all tasked with supplying Robert Lewandowski. The Pole needs a big night to help his side rack up the required goals.
Copenhagen, however, are no pushovers. Fresh from a gritty draw with Napoli, they still harbour faint hopes of a playoff spot themselves. Manager Jacob Neestrup will look to the lively Jordan Larsson son of Barça legend Henrik, to exploit the spaces Barcelona’s attacking intent will inevitably leave.
Team News & Predicted Lineups
*Barcelona (4-2-3-1):* Iñaki Peña; Koundé, Cubarsí, Martín, Balde; Eric García, Olmo; Yamal, Fermín López, Raphinha; Lewandowski.
Out: Pedri (hamstring), de Jong (suspended), Christensen, Gavi, Ferran Torres.
Doubtful: Araujo (fitness).
*Copenhagen (4-4-2):* Kotarski; Meling, Pereira, Suzuki, Diks; Larsson, Falk, Clem, Achouri; Elyounoussi, Oskarsson.
Out: Delaney (suspended), Mattsson, Huescas (injured).
Prediction: Barcelona 4 – 1 Copenhagen
Expect a tense, open affair. Barcelona’s defensive vulnerabilities mean Copenhagen will likely snatch a goal, but the Catalans’ superior firepower, supercharged by Yamal’s return should ultimately tell. Once the first goal goes in, the anxiety should lift, leading to the flurry of goals they desperately need. A place in the top eight is within reach, but they’ll have to fight and score their way there. Anything less than a convincing win spells a risky two legged playoff in February.
