Barcelona will continue its Champions League campaign on Tuesday as it takes on AC Milan.
Barca has a tremendous lead in the Spanish league and has been given favorite status in this tournament. However, they know that this match against Milan will be anything but easy. "Milan aren't just any old team. They have players that are strong defensively - tough and with a lot of talent. They a great team, with seven European Cups," says the 34-year old Xavi. He has been out with injury for the squad but is expected to make his return on Wednesday.
Despite the favorite status, Barcelona won Group G in the opening round with some difficulty. The team took down Spartak Moscow 3-2 after trailing 2-1. Barcelona managed a 2-0 win over Benfica despite being out chanced. In their first game with Celtic, the Spanish side was frustrated by the Scottish defense but squeaked out a victory thanks to a last second goal from Jordi Alba. However, the luck would run out in the ensuing battle as Barcelona would lose 2-1 to Celtic. Barcelona regained its form with a dominant 3-0 win over Spartak Moscow and ended the group stage with a 0-0 draw against Benfica.
Despite the struggles Barcelona is still considered a favorite thanks to the dynamic play of Lionel Messi. We accept we are the big favorites for the Champions League. Having so much expected of us is a lot of pressure, but at the same time, we accept the challenge," added Xavi.
Milan struggled through the group stage. The team drew 0-0 with Anderlecht in the opening tilt before winning 3-2 against Zenit St. Petersburg; the victory was the result of an own goal from the Russian side. Milan lost 1-0 to Malaga but salvaged its tournament with a 1-1 draw in the rematch. The Italian squad then took down Anderlecht before losing to St. Petersburg in the final bout of the group stage.
Prediction: Barcelona should win this match easily; 2-0 Blaugrana.
Start Time: 2:45 PM EST
TV Info: Fox Soccer Channel
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