A thrilling clash awaits on Wednesday as Borussia Dortmund, currently fourth in the Champions League standings, host third-placed Barcelona at the iconic Westfalenstadion. Both teams sit on 12 points from their first five matches and are well-positioned to secure direct qualification to the Round of 16.
Dortmund’s European campaign has been impressive, highlighted by a commanding 3-0 victory over Dinamo Zagreb on matchday five. However, their domestic form has faltered since, with consecutive 1-1 Bundesliga draws against Bayern Munich and Borussia Monchengladbach leaving them sixth in the league and 12 points behind leaders Bayern.
Despite their recent stumble, Dortmund’s home form under manager Nuri Sahin has been remarkable, with eight wins from nine matches at the Westfalenstadion this season. In the Champions League, they have the chance to win five of their first six group-stage games for the first time since their triumphant 1997 campaign.
Dortmund’s attacking prowess has been key, with 16 goals scored in their opening five matches. Sahin’s men have delivered commanding wins over Celtic and Sturm Graz, maintaining a perfect home record in Europe so far. However, Barcelona poses a formidable challenge.
Dortmund has never beaten the Catalan giants in four previous meetings, and their struggles against Spanish opposition continue, having recently suffered a 5-2 defeat to Real Madrid.
Barcelona’s manager, Hansi Flick, has seen his side remain consistent in Europe despite some hiccups in domestic play. A 2-2 draw with Real Betis on Saturday means Barcelona has only two wins from their last six matches in La Liga, allowing Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid to close the gap at the top of the table.
In Europe, though, the story is different. Barcelona’s 3-0 win over Brest kept them among the top eight teams in the Champions League. Still, a subsequent 1-0 loss to Las Palmas at home highlighted their recent inconsistency. This trip to Dortmund marks the third consecutive away game for Barcelona, but their away form this season has been stellar. With 37 goals scored in 13 road games and six wins by three or more goals, the Catalans are a potent threat on foreign soil.
A victory on Wednesday would see Barcelona achieve five consecutive Champions League wins for the first time in four years. Their dynamic attack, which has delivered at least three goals in their last four European matches, will be crucial against Dortmund’s high-octane offense.
With both teams eager to solidify their positions in the top eight, this encounter promises an exhilarating display of European football. Dortmund will look to capitalize on their home advantage, while Barcelona aims to extend their formidable away record. As two giants collide, only one can take a decisive step toward the knockout stages.
INJURIES & SUSPENSIONS
Borussia Dortmund is grappling with defensive issues as Niklas Süle limped off over the weekend with a right ankle knock. He now joins Waldemar Anton, who is still recovering from a muscle injury, on the sidelines.
Meanwhile, Julian Brandt and Karim Adeyemi are in a race against time to regain fitness, while Maximilian Beier is ruled out after picking up an injury during the 1-1 draw with Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Gio Reyna, back in action for just over two weeks, hasn’t yet been given a substantial opportunity under manager Nuri Sahin. Unfortunately for the American, this game is unlikely to change that trend.
Barcelona, on the other hand, has fewer injury concerns. Defender Andreas Christensen remains unavailable, alongside forward Marc Bernal and Ansu Fati. However, Ronald Araújo could make his long-awaited return after five months on the sidelines.
Ferran Torres, who recently returned from injury and scored in consecutive games, is expected to start on the bench. Manager Hansi Flick is likely to stick with Raphinha and the exciting youngster Lamine Yamal on the wings, flanking Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker, fresh off scoring his 100th Champions League goal against Brest, will lead the attack.
In goal, the season-ending injury to Marc-André ter Stegen means Iñaki Peña continues to deputize. The young shot-stopper has been preferred over Wojciech Szczęsny, who came out of retirement earlier this season to bolster the squad.
As both teams face their own challenges, squad depth and adaptability will play a crucial role in deciding this high-stakes encounter.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Borussia Dortmund possible starting lineup:
Kobel; Ryerson, Can, Schlotterbeck, Bensebaini; Sabitzer, Nmecha, Gross; Malen, Guirassy, Gittens
Barcelona possible starting lineup:
Inaki Pena; Kounde, Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Balde; Pedri, De Jong; Yamal, Dani Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski
EXPERT PREDICTION
Borrussia Dortmund 2-2 Barcelona
Hansi Flick enjoyed a perfect record against Dortmund during his time as Bayern manager, winning all five encounters. However, this matchup could prove more challenging. Dortmund has been formidable at home this season, while Barcelona's recent inconsistencies have exposed some vulnerabilities.
Despite a heavy defeat to Real Madrid on matchday three, Dortmund has consistently delivered strong performances at the Westfalenstadion. This sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling and highly competitive clash, potentially the standout game of the round.
