Barcelona welcome Borussia Dortmund to the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on Wednesday night for a thrilling UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg. With both sides boasting attacking firepower and a history of high-scoring contests, fans can expect fireworks under the lights in Barcelona.
This match marks the first of two legs between the Catalan giants and last year’s runners-up. A strong result here could make all the difference ahead of next week’s return leg at Dortmund’s iconic Signal Iduna Park.
Barcelona Aiming for Treble Glory
La Blaugrana are having a stellar 2024/25 campaign under Hansi Flick. They’re currently top of La Liga and are set to play in the Copa del Rey final later this month. Now, their sights are set on European success.
Their Champions League journey has been impressive so far, and they’ll be hoping to continue their fine form. The 3-2 win over Dortmund in the group stages back in December showed their quality and ability to grind out results.
Barcelona’s recent results include a 1-1 draw against Real Betis, but before that, they dispatched Atletico Madrid and Girona in style. With Lewandowski leading the line and young talents like Gavi and Lamine Yamal stepping up, Barca’s attack looks sharp and full of intent.
Dortmund Inconsistent but Dangerous
Borussia Dortmund, meanwhile, have had a mixed domestic season. Despite some big wins, like their 4-1 away thrashing of Freiburg, they’ve also suffered defeats to lower-table sides like Bochum and Augsburg. The Bundesliga has been tough for them, but in Europe, they’ve found their rhythm.
Niko Kovac, who took over from Nuri Sahin, has brought some stability, but injuries to key players like Nico Schlotterbeck, Marcel Sabitzer, and doubts over Niklas Sule and Ramy Bensebaini could weaken their backline.
Even with those setbacks, Dortmund’s frontline remains potent. Julian Brandt, Karim Adeyemi, and Serhou Guirassy offer enough firepower to hurt any defense, especially on the counterattack.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Barcelona are without goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen and attacking midfielder Dani Olmo. Andreas Christensen is back in the squad but may not start. Raphinha is expected to replace Ferran Torres on the wing, and Gavi could slot into Olmo’s place behind the striker.
Barcelona predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Szczesny; Kounde, Araujo, Cubarsi, Balde; Pedri, De Jong; Yamal, Gavi, Raphinha; Lewandowski.
For Dortmund, Schlotterbeck is ruled out for the season. Midfielder Pascal Gross is suspended, while Marcel Sabitzer is sidelined. Cole Campbell is the only injury concern up front.
Borussia Dortmund predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Kobel; Ryerson, Anton, Can, Svensson; Nmecha, Ozcan; Adeyemi, Brandt, Beier; Guirassy.
Head-to-Head and Recent Form
These two sides met in the group stages where Barcelona won a thrilling 3-2 encounter away from home. Historically, The Catalans have never lost to Dortmund in their last five meetings, with three wins and two draws.
Recent form:
Barcelona:
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Barcelona 1-1 Real Betis
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Atletico Madrid 0-1 Barcelona
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Barcelona 4-1 Girona
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Barcelona 3-0 Osasuna
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Atletico Madrid 2-4 Barcelona
Dortmund:
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Freiburg 1-4 Dortmund
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Dortmund 3-1 Mainz
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RB Leipzig 2-0 Dortmund
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Lille 1-2 Dortmund
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Dortmund 0-1 Augsburg
Jambobet Betting Predictions
Match Winner: Barcelona to Win
The Catalans are in much better form and playing at home. With key Dortmund defenders missing, Barca should take advantage.
GG (Both Teams to Score): Yes
Dortmund’s attack remains dangerous, especially on the break. Expect goals from both sides.
Over 2.5 Goals: Yes
History shows this fixture usually delivers goals. Both teams have the players to make it an end-to-end affair.
Correct Score Prediction: Barcelona 3-1 Borussia Dortmund
A repeat scoreline from their group stage clash isn’t out of the question. Barcelona’s depth and quality could see them cruise to a two-goal advantage before heading to Germany.
Final Thoughts
Barcelona will look to build a comfortable lead at home, knowing the second leg in Dortmund will be a much tougher task. With their attacking trio in form and the team full of confidence, they’re favourites to win this leg. Dortmund will need to stay compact and clinical if they’re to leave Spain with a result.
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