Here is the predicted lineup as Barcelona prepare to take on Real Madrid in the first leg of the Copa Del Rey Semifinals at Nou Camp.
Barcelona will be taking on Real Madrid in the first leg of Copa Del Rey finals at Nou Camp. There was a total buzz around the country when the draw was announced last week. The winner of this tie will be facing Real Betis or Valencia in the finals during the end of the season.
Barcelona will be taking up the field after the comeback against Valencia which resulted in a 2-2 draw. It will be interesting to see how they would bounce back after showing their defensive calamities.
On the other hand, Santiago Solari’s club will be looking to nick a goal or two to enter into the second leg and strengthen their hand. Lately, the Los Blancos are one of the best teams in the league, having underperformed under the management of Julen Lopetegui.
INJURY NEWS:
Barcelona will have to wait till the final minute to take a call on their talisman, Lionel Messi. The Argentine was forced to complete full game after receiving treatment in the first half. On the other hand, Rafinha, Samuel Umtiti, and Jasper Cillessen will be the other absentees on Wednesday night.
Rafinha suffered a long term injury and will be out until the end of the season. The extent of Samuel Umtiti’s injury is not yet known because the club is yet to make a decision on the confirmation for surgery. Jasper Cillessen has been ruled out for six weeks after tearing his muscle in the training.
In the absence of the Dutch International, first choice Marc Andre-Ter Stegen is expected to fill that loophole. Sergio Roberto will be preferred in the right flank along with Gerard Pique, Clement Lenglet, and Jordi Alba at the back. Sergio Busquets, Artur Melo, and Ivan Rakitic will comprise the midfield. Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Coutinho are the expected front three.
PREDICTED XI: Marc Andre Ter Stegen, Sergio Roberto, Gerard Pique, Clement Lenglet, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, Ivan Rakitic, Artur Melo, Lionel Messi, Philippe Coutinho, Luis Suarez.
Barcelona fans will be hoping for the same lineup which caused disruption early on in the season.
Barcelona will be having a unique kit after deciding to have Chinese fonts at the back to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
