Suspension fears loom over Benfica with six players at risk for second leg vs Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona are gearing up for a crucial encounter against Benfica in the round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League.

The Portuguese side will head into the fixture with several concerns, and their manager, Bruno Lage, has some key decisions to make ahead of the tie.

One of Benfica’s biggest worries is the fitness of Florentino Luis. The midfielder has been an integral part of the squad this season, featuring in nearly every game.

He has played 31 official matches so far and contributed two goals. However, he has been struggling with muscular issues, and his availability remains uncertain.

If he is unable to recover in time, it would be a significant blow to Benfica’s midfield stability.

Benfica players at risk of suspension

Benfica also have a disciplinary issue to be mindful of, as six of their players are at risk of suspension.

Six Benfica players are at risk of missing the second leg. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

Nicolas Otamendi, Alvaro Carreras, Fredrik Aursnes, Orkun Kokcu, Zeki Amdouni, and Florentino Luis are all one booking away from missing the return leg at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys. This could force Lage to be cautious in his approach.

Barcelona will make the journey to Lisbon today. The squad is scheduled to hold their pre-match training session later tonight at the match venue.

Before the session, Hansi Flick will address the media in a press conference alongside a yet-to-be-confirmed player.

It is worth remembering that the last time these two sides met in Lisbon, the game turned into a dramatic spectacle.

Benfica had a two-goal lead late in the match, but Barcelona staged a stunning comeback, scoring three goals in stoppage time to secure a 5-4 victory.

Lage is well aware that his team cannot afford to let history repeat itself, especially in such a high-stakes encounter.