FC Barcelona travels to face Leganes this Saturday in La Liga, following a mixed week. They drew 1-1 against Real Betis at home but then secured a dominant 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarterfinal first leg. Despite the draw in La Liga, Barcelona actually extended their lead over rivals Real Madrid, as Real Madrid suffered a loss to Valencia and then a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in their Champions League quarterfinal first leg.
Leganes are currently struggling, having won only once in their last six league matches. Their recent form includes three losses and a draw in the past four games, placing them 18th in the table, two points adrift from safety. Barcelona is expected to field Lamine Yamal, who is likely recovered from a minor injury, alongside Gavi, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres. Robert Lewandowski may be rested for the crucial Champions League second leg against Borussia Dortmund.
Match Details
- Date: Saturday, April 12
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio Municipal de Butarque, Leganes, Spain
- Live stream: ESPN+
Last Encounter
The previous match between these teams this season saw Leganes surprisingly defeat Barcelona 1-0 at Camp Nou. Sergio Gonzalez scored the only goal, marking a low point in Barcelona`s season.
Barcelona`s Perspective
Hansi Flick emphasized the importance of maintaining Champions League level intensity for this La Liga game. “It will be vital to play with the same approach and desire that we have in the Champions League. We have to show our strength. There are only eight games left in the league and we have to go for it if we want to win it. If you want to be champions, you have to demonstrate that in these types of games.”
He also acknowledged Leganes` strength, stating, “They won here, they have beaten Atletico Madrid and gave Real Madrid a tough time. Leganes defend really well and they also know how to attack from deep. We will have to be careful and we have to be very focused for this game. We are leaders and we have to show that. They are fighting against the drop and it will be a tough game. We will see how the players are feeling and make the necessary changes to the team.”
Projected Starting Lineups
Leganes:
Marko Dmitrovic; Sergio Gonzalez, Matija Nastasic, Renato Tapia; Valentin Rosier, Seydouba Cisse, Yvan Neyou, Javi Hernandez; Juan Cruz, Dani Raba, Diego Garcia.
FC Barcelona:
Wojciech Szczesny; Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Alejandro Balde; Pedri, Frankie De Jong; Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Raphinha; Ferran Torres.
Key Player to Watch
Lamine Yamal, FC Barcelona – After a standout performance against Borussia Dortmund, Lamine Yamal is expected to be a key player again. He scored and contributed to another goal in the Champions League match, solidifying his reputation as a world-class talent. Despite a minor injury, he is anticipated to start and lead Barcelona`s attack.
Key Storyline
Will Flick`s Rotations Pay Off? – With a busy schedule including Champions League and Copa del Rey commitments, Flick faces the challenge of rotating his squad effectively to maintain freshness. Barcelona is still competing on multiple fronts, including the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid and potentially the Champions League semi-finals. Strategic squad rotation will be crucial.
Match Prediction
Barcelona is favored to win and secure three points ahead of their Champions League second leg match. Prediction: FC Barcelona 3, Leganes 0
