Slavia Prague vs Barcelona: Prediction, Team News, Lineups Preview

Barcelona is set to bolster its hopes of securing a top-eight position in the Champions League as they face Slavia Prague. This crucial match is scheduled for Wednesday night. Currently, Barcelona ranks 15th in the league stage, just two points behind eighth-placed Atletico Madrid. In contrast, Slavia Prague finds itself struggling at 33rd in the same standings.

Match Preview: Slavia Prague vs Barcelona

Slavia Prague has not played a competitive match in over a month, with their last outing occurring on December 13. They managed a thrilling 4-3 victory against Jablonec in the Czech Republic’s top division. However, their recent friendly matches against Basel, Karlsruher, and Brann have not prepared them adequately for this encounter. The club is facing significant challenges in the Champions League this season.

Slavia Prague’s Champions League Struggles

• Record: 0 wins, 3 draws, 3 losses
• Current points: 3
• Last game: Lost 3-0 to Tottenham Hotspur on December 9
• Goals scored this season: 2

To improve their position, Slavia Prague needs a win, which currently appears crucial as they sit four points from a playoff position. Historically, the team has struggled against Spanish sides, with only two victories in 16 encounters.

Barcelona’s Recent Performance

Barcelona also seeks to secure its position in the Champions League, tallying three wins, one draw, and two losses in their six matches this season, resulting in 10 points. They are two points shy of breaking into the top eight, making this match essential for their progress. The La Liga champions recently experienced a setback, suffering a 2-1 defeat to Real Sociedad, narrowing their lead over Real Madrid to just one point.

Barcelona’s Away Game Challenges

• Last eight matches against Czech teams: 7 wins, 1 draw, 0 losses
• Last five away Champions League games: 1 win, 3 losses

Barcelona has faced defensive issues throughout the season, which could hinder their ambitions in Europe. They must build on their attacking talent to ensure success in this upcoming match.

Team News and Potential Lineups

For Slavia Prague, they have no new injuries or suspensions to report ahead of facing Barcelona. Long-term absentees Matous Srb and Dominik Javorcek remain unavailable. Mojmir Chytil, the team’s top scorer this season with eight goals, is expected to play a key role alongside Lukas Provod, who has five goals and ten assists this season.

Barcelona, on the other hand, has several concerns. Lamine Yamal is suspended due to a yellow card, while Gavi and Andreas Christensen are sidelined with knee injuries. Raphinha’s participation is uncertain due to a thigh issue after missing the match against Real Sociedad. Potential lineup changes may see Marcus Rashford start, depending on Raphinha’s fitness, with Ferran Torres likely taking on a forward role.

Predicted Starting Lineups

In conclusion, Slavia Prague faces an uphill battle against a determined Barcelona side eager to recover from recent setbacks. A high-stakes encounter awaits as both teams vie for critical points in the Champions League standings.