FC Barcelona is looking to build from their three-game winning streak by earning another win when they face FC Porto in the Champions League. These two teams are confident coming into this match, as both are coming from their respective wins. Barcelona and Porto are both in Group H, having the same points, but Barcelona sits on the top. They are currently with nine points from their four matches, despite starting their campaign with a loss. On the other hand, Porto is at the second with nine points, and started their campaign strong. This match is crucial for both teams, as the winners will have a huge lead against the team at the second. Barcelona is with an advantage against Porto in their six meetings, winning five of which, and Porto earned one. The meeting between these two teams is on November 29, 2023, at 4:00 AM (GMT+8).
FC Barcelona
Barcelona’s chances of reaching the Champions League knockout stage are slim, as they would have secured their spot with two games to spare if they had defeated Shakhtar on November 7. However, the Ukrainian team’s 1-0 victory put pressure on the La Liga champions. Barcelona remains top of Group H, with Porto in second and Shakhtar in third. A win on Tuesday would secure their spot in the last-16 stage, while a draw would suffice if Shakhtar loses to Royal Antwerp. Barcelona’s recent 1-1 draw with Rayo Vallecano leaves them in fourth place, having only won two of their last five matches in all competitions. Xavi’s failure to lead the Catalan side into the knockout round of the Champions League puts significant pressure on him.
Barcelona may be without Marc-Andre ter Stegen due to a back issue, while Gavi is out with a knee injury. Sergi Roberto may make the squad after a calf issue. Head coach Xavi will make changes from the league-starting side, with Joao Felix, Ilkay Gundogan, Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde, and Raphinha potentially joining the XI.
FC Porto
Porto, currently in second position in Group H, has been in strong form, winning three matches and losing one, accumulating nine points. A win on Tuesday would allow them to advance to the knockout round if Shakhtar draws or loses to Antwerp, while a draw would suffice if Shakhtar loses to the team currently at the bottom of the group. Porto has beaten Antwerp twice in this section, including a 3-1 win over Shakhtar. They have also suffered a 1-0 defeat to Barcelona in the reverse match. Porto’s team, led by Sergio Conceicao, has won this competition twice, in 1987 and 2004, and advanced to the round of 16 last season.
Porto will be without Samuel Portugal, Ivan Marcano, Gabriel Veron, and Ivan Jaime due to injury. Wendell is a major doubt due to a muscular problem. Changes will be made from the Montalegre side, with Evanilson starting again.
Prediction:
FC Barcelona (1.5)
Odds: -0.82
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