Fermin Lopez has fired a warning to Newcastle United, Barcelona are arriving in “good spirits” and ready for a war at St James’ Park .
The Catalans warmed up for Tuesday’s Champions League showdown by beating Athletic Club 1-0 in a “very difficult” away ground on Saturday night . Lamine Yamal’s brilliant winner restored their four point lead at the top of La Liga .
Now attention turns to Tyneside. And Lopez knows exactly what’s coming.
THE PHYSICAL TEST
“We know we will face a similar match to the one here, in a very difficult stadium against a very physical opponent,” the midfielder told reporters.
That’s not just talk. Newcastle under Eddie Howe are exactly that physical, aggressive, relentless. St James’ Park under the lights is as intimidating as it gets.
Barcelona have been warned.
THE SPIRITS
“We head into it in good spirits after the win,” Lopez added. “We hope to put in a great performance, play our normal game and win.”
Good spirits is one thing. Coping with the Geordie roar is another. Barca have the quality, the technique, the individual brilliance. But this is a different kind of test.
THE CONTRAST
While Barca were winning in Bilbao, Newcastle were losing 3-1 to Manchester City in the FA Cup . That’s not ideal preparation but Howe will have rested key players with this tie in mind.
Anthony Gordon, who scored against Barcelona back in September, started on the bench. He’ll be unleashed on Tuesday.
THE STAKES
Champions League last 16. First leg at St James’ Park. Barcelona arriving with La Liga momentum and a four point lead . Newcastle with a point to prove and a crowd ready to erupt.
Lopez says they’re ready. But is anyone ever really ready for a European night on Tyneside?
