Barcelona is a step away from 4th consecutive CDR final. They will host Atletico Madrid at Camp Nou for the 2nd leg.
Catalans won the 1st leg of CDR semifinal at Vicente Calderon with a score of 2-1 against Atletico Madrid. Even though Barcelona is favorite to go through, it will be foolish to write off Atletico given their rise in the Europe as one of the best teams. The away side has always caused problems for Catalans whenever they have faced off each other. But Catalans have gained the upper hand going into this game thanks to Suarez and Messi. The resilience shown by Atletico in the 2nd half of 1st leg assured that the tie is far from over. Also, the alterations in FCB squad for the league game was proof of the threat the away side possesses.
Speaking about the away side, they have not been in their usual form this year suffering a lot in league standings. Even though Griezmann showed sparks of brilliance in last game, he is unable to set the stage on fire this season. However, Simeone has plenty of options in the final third like Torres, Gameiro, Carrasco and Griezmann. The Atletico side is well-known for their aggressive game planning. They will not keep any page unturned in this important fixture.
The side is quite experienced to turn the things in a flash and will surely fancy their chances against the host. Atletico captain Gabi has been suspended for this game. Despite that, Simone will likely to field the strongest side. Even though their away form has not been spectacular this season, they will give their all to reach the final.
The home side might be somewhat comfortable with their crucial away win and 2 away goals. But Luis Enrique is aware of the threat from the past experiences. He is well prepared with his homework as he rested Luis Suarez and gave Messi an unlikely 25-minute break at the weekend game. The unavailability of Neymar due to suspension might be a cause of concern for him. In addition, he will be without Rafinha who fractured his nose in the weekend game. However, Enrique will be delighted with the return of midfield maestro Iniesta, Busquets and Lucas Digne in training.
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The Catalans were solid in defense in the 1st half at Vicente Calderon. They’ll try to continue this at Camp Nou. Gerard Pique is likely to start with Samuel Umtiti at center back. Lucho might be creative in the midfield given the awaited Champions league fixtures and will have to check his options to replace Neymar. To add up, Catalans haven’t lost in their last 9 competitive games and they boast the joint-best defensive home record.
To sum up the things, this is a big opportunity for Catalans. They have their first real shot of the season at silverware given the finalist they might expect. As Enrique suggested, they are still up for treble and this will be the 1st step towards it. Even though the tie is far from over, Barcelona has done enough damage in the 1st leg to secure the spot in final.
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Playing Catalans at their home is always going to be difficult and Atletico has to play the game of their life to turn this around. As Suarez, Messi and no of players are coming into the home side with a bit of rest, it is a daunting task to beat them. With the fresh legs of the home side, I am backing myself for a 2-1 win for Catalans which will assure a place in CDR final.