In the first leg in Naples, both teams' star strikers found the net, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Now, as they meet in Catalonia, the stage is set for an intense battle reminiscent of their historic ties linked by the legendary Diego Maradona.
Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski showcased his scoring prowess with a splendid finish, while Napoli's Victor Osimhen marked his return from the Africa Cup of Nations with a crucial goal.
Despite Lewandowski's efforts, Barcelona couldn't secure a first-leg advantage, leaving the tie evenly poised for the return leg, where they remain unbeaten in five encounters against Napoli.
For Barcelona, progressing to the quarter-finals would mark a significant achievement, especially considering their recent form under departing manager Xavi. With an unbeaten streak of eight matches and solid defensive performances in their last three outings, Barcelona aims to keep their European dream alive amid a challenging season.
Although historically strong at home in the Champions League, Barcelona has struggled in recent knockout matches, emphasizing the importance of a strong performance against Napoli. Conversely, Napoli faces a daunting task, having been eliminated in previous UEFA competitions when failing to secure an away leg lead.
Despite their managerial changes and inconsistent form, Napoli has shown resilience under interim boss Francesco Calzona, especially with Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia finding their scoring touch. With an impressive away record in the Champions League and recent positive results, Napoli poses a significant threat to Barcelona's ambitions.
As they prepare to clash once again, both Barcelona and Napoli understand the stakes involved, with each team aiming to seize the opportunity and advance to the next stage of the competition.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Since the first leg in February, Barcelona's injury concerns have escalated, leaving them with a significant crisis ahead of Tuesday's match. Both Frenkie De Jong and Pedri will be sidelined due to ankle and hamstring injuries, respectively.With Gavi already unavailable due to an ACL injury, Barcelona's midfield may feature makeshift options like Andreas Christensen, Ilkay Gundogan, and possibly Fermin Lopez. Additionally, Ferran Torres, Alejandro Balde, and Marcos Alonso remain sidelined, while Raphinha's participation is uncertain due to an ankle problem. However, Ronald Araujo returns from suspension to bolster the defensive line.
In Naples, 16-year-old Lamine Yamal made history as the youngest player in a Champions League knockout game and now eyes becoming the youngest goalscorer in the competition's history. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Robert Lewandowski, with 18 goal involvements in his last 12 appearances, leads Barcelona's attack.
Napoli's Victor Osimhen, who scored the equalizer in the first leg, aims to further his Champions League tally and surpass Obafemi Martins as the most prolific Nigerian player in the competition. He leads a formidable attacking trio alongside Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Matteo Politano.
Napoli faces their own injury concerns, with Jens Cajuste, Cyril Ngonge, and Amir Rrahmani all potentially sidelined due to thigh injuries. Leo Ostigard stands ready to step in if needed. Additionally, Piotr Zielinski's absence in midfield, due to contract-related issues, necessitates a replacement.
Both teams will have to navigate these injury challenges as they prepare for a crucial second leg, with Barcelona aiming to overcome their setbacks and Napoli seeking to capitalize on their momentum from the first leg.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Barcelona possible starting lineup:Ter Stegen; Kounde, Araujo, Martinez, Cancelo; Gundogan, Christensen, Lopez; Yamal, Lewandowski, Felix
Napoli possible starting lineup:
Meret; Di Lorenzo, Ostigard, Jesus, Olivera; Anguissa, Lobotka, Traore; Politano, Osimhen, Kvaratskhelia
EXPERT PREDICTION
Barcelona 2-1 Napoli
Barcelona's ability to score crucial goals late in La Liga matches highlights their fighting spirit and determination. Even if Napoli manages to score at Montjuic, Barcelona's resilience and late-game prowess suggest they have what it takes to secure victory and advance to the Champions League quarter-finals.
