FC Barcelona vs FC Copenhagen: Match preview | UEFA Champions League | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are set to face their next challenge in the UEFA Champions League as they welcome FC Copenhagen to the Spotify Camp Nou. This final match of the league phase carries huge significance, with plenty at stake for the Catalan giants.

Indeed, the result could determine whether Barça secure a place in the top eight of the Champions League league phase. For that reason alone, Hansi Flick’s side will be expected to go all out in pursuit of victory.

FC Barcelona vs FC Copenhagen: Match details

Match overview:

In many ways, this fixture represents a genuine test for Flick’s Barcelona. With pressure mounting and all eyes on them, the Blaugranes cannot afford any slip-ups if they want to guarantee a top-eight finish in the league phase.

Moreover, playing at the Spotify Camp Nou adds an extra layer of responsibility. Barcelona will be eager to deliver a strong performance in front of their home supporters, especially in a competition where Flick’s side will be keen to make a clear statement this season.

Form-wise, Barça have looked impressive in recent weeks. They have suffered just one defeat in their last 14 matches, winning the remaining 13. Over their last five games, they have lost only once, scoring 13 goals while conceding just six.

These numbers underline their strong momentum and help explain why Barcelona currently sit at the top of the La Liga table. That said, their opponents should not be underestimated.

FC Copenhagen may not boast the strongest recent form, having recorded three draws and two wins in their last five matches, but they are no strangers to challenging opponents on the European stage. The Danish side currently sit 26th in the Champions League league phase with 8 points, and this match represents a do-or-die scenario for them.

Anything less than a positive result would almost certainly see Copenhagen finish outside the top 24, which would mean elimination from the Champions League at the league phase stage. That reality ensures they will approach this fixture with maximum urgency, knowing that even a draw could keep their hopes of reaching the play-offs alive.

As for their goal difference recently, they have scored 11 goals and have conceded 8 goals in return across their last five games. However, two of those games have been classified as club friendlies, but they still showcase the competitiveness of this FC Copenhagen side.

Ultimately, FC Barcelona cannot afford to underestimate an opponent fighting for survival. With qualification stakes at both ends of the table, the pressure will be high and the margins slim.

For La Blaugrana, however, the objective goes beyond simply winning. A strong result with a healthy goal margin could prove crucial in improving their goal difference and securing a top-eight finish.

Adding to the challenge, Barcelona will be without two of their key midfielders. Pedri remains sidelined with injury, while Frenkie de Jong is suspended, forcing Hansi Flick to field a midfield without his two first-choice options. How Flick copes with those absences could play a major role in determining the outcome, and it remains to be seen how he chooses to line up his team.