Barcelona, under the guidance of new coach Hansi Flick, are set to face Red Star Belgrade in the Serbian capital for a Champions League showdown this Wednesday.
Flick’s Barcelona have been in scintillating form this season, with the German coach building a team around the latest crop of La Masia talents, which has propelled the club to the top of La Liga.
Following a statement 4-1 win over Bayern Munich, Barcelona are favorites heading into this game. Meanwhile, Red Star Belgrade has struggled in the competition, yet to secure a single point.
As anticipation builds, for reliable betting predictions on the Champions League, Jambobet remains the best choice.
Red Star Belgrade vs Barcelona Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, November 6
- Kick-off Time: 20:00 BST / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
- Location: Stadion Rajko Mitić, Belgrade, Serbia
- Referee: Espen Eskas (NOR)
The game will be live on TNT Sports 6 and discovery+ in the UK, while fans in the United States can watch via Paramount+. Canadian viewers can tune in on DAZN.
Barcelona’s Champions League Journey So Far
Barcelona have kicked off their Champions League campaign with intensity and flair, much in line with Hansi Flick’s attacking philosophy.
The Blaugrana’s group phase has been highlighted by a stunning 4-1 triumph over Bayern Munich.
The team also registered a win against Young Boys but faltered in their opening game against Monaco, where they played most of the match with ten men.
Barca’s current standing in the Champions League table is bolstered by an impressive goal difference, and they’ll aim to maintain momentum in Belgrade.
This young Barcelona squad is brimming with talent and confidence, and with Flick’s high-pressing, possession-oriented style, they’re expected to exploit any gaps in Red Star Belgrade’s defense.
Given their recent form, Barcelona will likely dominate possession and look to control the game from the outset.
Red Star Belgrade: Struggles in Europe Despite Domestic Success
While Red Star Belgrade reigns supreme in the Serbian SuperLiga, their Champions League campaign has been challenging. Losses to Benfica, Inter, and Monaco have left Red Star without points and at the bottom of the group standings.
However, their recent domestic matches suggest that they can score goals and build momentum. In European competition, the Serbian champions have consistently struggled to compete against clubs from Europe’s top leagues. This game against a dominant Barcelona will likely continue that trend.
Red Star Belgrade is known for its passionate home crowd, which could provide a slight advantage, but the gulf in quality between the two teams may prove too wide to overcome.
Key Team News and Predicted Lineups
Red Star Belgrade
Red Star’s lineup has been impacted by injuries, most notably with the absence of winger Peter Olayinka due to an Achilles injury that will keep him sidelined for the remainder of 2024.
Nemanja Radonjic, another key player, has also faced setbacks and is unlikely to feature. With goalkeeper Omri Glazer and defender Ognjen Mimovic out of form, Red Star will need to rely on a combination of their best available players and emerging talents.
The Serbian team’s midfield will be crucial in countering Barcelona’s high-press approach, with players like Krunic and Maksimovic needing to deliver top performances.
Red Star Belgrade Predicted Lineup (3-5-2): Ilic; Young-woo, Spajic, Djiga; Silas, Krunic, Elsnik, Maksimovic, Rodic; Duarte, Ndiaye.
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Barcelona
Barca enters this match missing a few key players, including Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia, and Ferran Torres. Marc-Andre ter Stegen and young Marc Bernal are out for an extended period.
Flick’s tactical approach will likely rely on a mix of experienced players and promising talents. Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, and Fermin Lopez are expected to start, with the onus on them to provide stability and creativity in midfield.
The absence of key defenders may be a concern, but Barcelona has shown that they can compensate with a high-pressing, possession-based approach that limits the opponent’s scoring chances. Robert Lewandowski is likely to lead the line, supported by a youthful and dynamic midfield.
Barcelona Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1): Pena; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde; Gavi, Casado; Yamal, Fermin, Fati; Lewandowski.
Key Players to Watch
- Gavi (Barcelona): A La Masia graduate, Gavi has quickly established himself as a central figure in Barcelona’s midfield. His energy, vision, and ability to disrupt opposition plays make him crucial in the team’s pressing strategy.
- Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona): The experienced striker continues to deliver on the biggest stages. With Red Star’s defense vulnerable, Lewandowski will aim to capitalize on any defensive lapses and increase his goal tally in the Champions League.
- Hans Vanaken (Red Star Belgrade): Vanaken is known for his ability to create opportunities and convert set pieces. His experience and skill will be pivotal if Red Star are to mount any serious challenge against Barcelona.
- Roko Simic (Red Star Belgrade): A young forward with great potential, Simic could trouble Barcelona with his pace and agility. However, he’ll need significant support from the midfield to break through Barcelona’s defense.
Red Star Belgrade vs Barcelona Prediction
This Champions League clash sees two teams with contrasting fortunes. Red Star’s domestic dominance has not translated into European success, and their defensive frailties were evident in losses to Inter and Monaco.
Meanwhile, Barcelona, despite injury challenges, have displayed remarkable form. Flick’s side, with its blend of experienced internationals and emerging La Masia talents, has the firepower to break down Red Star’s defense.
Playing at home may give Red Star a slight advantage, but Barcelona’s skill, speed, and tactical edge should allow them to control the game. With Red Star yet to secure a point in the Champions League, it’s unlikely they’ll start against a red-hot Barca team.
Score Prediction: Red Star Belgrade 0-3 Barcelona
