Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has already chosen his midfield trio for the battle against Benfica.
who will win the match?
Barcelona is preparing for a key match against Benfica in the opening leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16, and their midfield trio is already taking shape.
According to Alfredo Martinez, Dani Olmo, Pedri, and Frenkie de Jong are expected to take command of the center of the pitch, providing control, creativity, and stability.
Benfica, led by Bruno Lage, is keen to avoid repeating the defensive errors that cost them past games against Barcelona.
The Portuguese, like the Catalans, prefer offensive football, frequently leaving holes in the defense.
With this in mind, they will pursue a more structured defensive strategy while preserving their offensive threat.
What about Barcelona?
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has a full team at his disposal, with the exception of Gavi, who is questionable.
The teenage midfielder has missed two training sessions owing to a sickness, so he is unlikely to start.
As a result, Olmo is expected to step in and play an important part in midfield against Benfica. Aside from this tiny problem, Flick has nearly finalized his preferred starting lineup.
Based on the previous encounter and the rotations he did when the result was already known, it is believed that Inigo Martinez and Alejandro Balde will return to the starting defense, joining Jules Kounde and Pau Cubarsi.
Meanwhile, De Jong, who was rested in the previous game, is set to start alongside Pedri and Olmo in midfield.
There is no place for discussion up front. Flick's offensive trio stays constant, as they continue to be a key component of Barcelona's strategy.
With the stadium's explosive atmosphere still reminiscent of memorable meetings from weeks past, Barça will be seeking to establish a commanding first-leg lead in Lisbon.
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