Barcelona’s potential opponents in the Champions League round of 16 | OneFootball

Barcelona now have a clear idea of the two possible opponents they could face in the round of 16 of the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League.

After an exceptional performance in the league phase, the Blaugrana secured a top-eight finish, which allowed them to advance directly to the knockout stage while avoiding the playoff round.

With the draw scheduled for Friday, Hansi Flick’s squad is getting ready for a crucial challenge as they continue their pursuit of a sixth Champions League trophy.

Which team will Barcelona face?

One of the teams that could be drawn against Barcelona is Benfica. The Portuguese giants secured their place in the next round after defeating Monaco in the playoffs with an aggregate score of 4-2.

Throughout this Champions League campaign, Benfica have displayed impressive form, combining a potent attack with a disciplined defensive structure.

Barcelona will either face PSG or Benfica. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Barcelona have already faced Benfica in this season’s competition, so they are well aware of the challenge that awaits if they are drawn against them again.

Playing at the Estadio da Luz is never easy, as the Lisbon side tend to be particularly strong at home.

Their last encounter in Portugal was a dramatic affair in difficult weather conditions, with Barcelona narrowly edging out a victory in a high-scoring contest.

Then there’s PSG

The other potential opponent for Barcelona in the round of 16 is Paris Saint-Germain. The French side secured their place in this stage by defeating Brest, winning the first leg 3-0 before finishing the job in Paris.

With Kylian Mbappe absent, Ousmane Dembele and Vitinha stepped up to lead the team through a difficult playoff phase.

If the draw pairs them with Barcelona, it will set up another intense European showdown between two clubs with plenty of recent history in the competition.