Borussia Dortmund vs Barcelona: Preview, Predictions, and Lineups

Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona face off in an exciting Champions League clash at Signal Iduna Park on Wednesday night. Both teams have been performing well in Europe, but inconsistent domestic form adds an extra layer of intrigue to this encounter.

Match Preview

Recent Form

Borussia Dortmund have shown glimpses of brilliance in Europe this season, but their inconsistency in the Bundesliga has hindered their domestic campaign. Nuri Sahin’s side are currently sixth in the league, having drawn against Borussia Monchengladbach most recently.

Barcelona, on the other hand, are atop La Liga, albeit with Real Madrid playing a game fewer. Despite their strong league form, fatigue is creeping into Hansi Flick’s squad, and injuries are adding to the challenge.

Key Issues

Borussia Dortmund are dealing with defensive concerns after Niklas Sule and Waldemar Anton picked up injuries. Emre Can could be forced into a central defensive role to fill the gap.

Barcelona has received a boost with Ronald Araujo returning to the squad, though they remain without key players such as Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Andreas Christensen. Flick’s side has shown vulnerability on the road, drawing at Real Betis in their last outing.

Predicted Lineups

Borussia Dortmund Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Kobel; Ryerson, Can, Schlotterbeck, Bensebaini; Sabitzer, Nmecha; Malen, Brandt, Gittens; Guirassy.

Barcelona Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Pena; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde; Casado, Pedri; Yamal, Fermin, Raphinha; Lewandowski.

Match Prediction

Both teams are dealing with key injury concerns, making this a closely contested match. Dortmund’s electric home atmosphere could give them an edge, but Barcelona’s quality in attack, led by Lewandowski, should make for an exciting clash. Given the inconsistencies, a high-scoring game with Dortmund edging out Barcelona 3-2 is likely.