Official: Barcelona starting XI against SL Benfica | UCL | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are set to play against SL Benfica in the UEFA Champions League soon. While the previous game against CA Osasuna was postponed, this clash is set to go on as planned. However, in terms of the stakes, it does not get much higher for Barcelona than it does with this game.

Their entire Champions League hopes now rest on this match, one in which the Catalan giants have a slight advantage of sorts. After their 1-0 victory over in Portugal, Barcelona enter this second leg with that one goal being their advantage, but the team can not let it hinder them.

To ensure that Barcelona plays as per their best possible level, Hansi Flick has decided to field a strong starting eleven as well. With the players well-rested and ready to go all out in this game, it only made sense for the Barcelona coach to go with such a line-up.

Here is the official starting eleven that will represent FC Barcelona against SL Benfica.

In goal, Wojciech Szczesny retains his place as the team’s starting goalkeeper. He has been in exceptional form recently and this game will be one where he will need to be at his best again. Last time out, he was a game-winner for the Catalan giants and this game is a great chance to be just as dependable.

Over in the defense, Pau Cubarsi’s suspension has made way for Ronald Araujo and Inigo Martinez to be the two starting centre-backs. While it is always an edge to have the ball-playing expertise of Cubarsi in the side, these two defenders also know exactly how to stop even the best of forwards.

On their flanks, Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde are the two starting fullbacks for Barcelona. Their ability to consistently demonstrate their attacking and defensive capabilities is what makes them so reliable.

In the midfield, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong will be the starters for Barcelona. Both of them have an elite sense of composure on the field, and no matter the challenge, they have the ability to carve out excellent opportunities for their teammates.

Right in front of them, Raphinha and Lamine Yamal will both be occupying the wings of the team. In between them, Dani Olmo will be the player orchestrating the attacks of the team and using his technical ability to connect play with the centre-forward as well.

Up top, Robert Lewandowski is the player who starts as the sole centre-forward for Barcelona. Still among the top scorers in the UEFA Champions League, the Polish veteran will be looking to get on the scoresheet during this game.