Barcelona are gearing up for an important encounter in opposition to Benfica within the spherical of 16 of the UEFA Champions League.
The Portuguese aspect will head into the fixture with a number of issues, and their supervisor, Bruno Lage, has some key selections to make forward of the tie.
One among Benfica’s largest worries is the health of Florentino Luis. The midfielder has been an integral a part of the squad this season, that includes in practically each recreation.
He has performed 31 official matches thus far and contributed two targets. Nonetheless, he has been fighting muscular points, and his availability stays unsure.
If he’s unable to get better in time, it might be a major blow to Benfica’s midfield stability.
Benfica gamers vulnerable to suspension
Benfica even have a disciplinary challenge to be conscious of, as six of their gamers are vulnerable to suspension.
Six Benfica gamers are vulnerable to lacking the second leg. (Picture by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Photographs)
Nicolas Otamendi, Alvaro Carreras, Fredrik Aursnes, Orkun Kokcu, Zeki Amdouni, and Florentino Luis are all one reserving away from lacking the return leg on the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys. This might power Lage to be cautious in his method.
Barcelona will make the journey to Lisbon at this time. The squad is scheduled to carry their pre-match coaching session later tonight on the match venue.
Earlier than the session, Hansi Flick will tackle the media in a press convention alongside a yet-to-be-confirmed participant.
It’s value remembering that the final time these two sides met in Lisbon, the sport become a dramatic spectacle.
Benfica had a two-goal lead late within the match, however Barcelona staged a surprising comeback, scoring three targets in stoppage time to safe a 5-4 victory.
Lage is properly conscious that his workforce can not afford to let historical past repeat itself, particularly in such a high-stakes encounter.
The post Suspension fears loom over Benfica with six gamers in danger for second leg vs Barcelona first appeared on Foot & Soccer.
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Author : footsoccer
Publish date : 2025-03-04 09:31:38
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