Borussia Dortmund takes on Barcelona in a crucial Champions League Round 6 matchup on December 12, 2024. Both teams are tied on points in their group, making this game vital for reaching the top spot and gaining a better position in the knockout stages. Dortmund comes into this match with an impressive Champions League run, winning four of their five games, showcasing their strength on the European stage.
Meanwhile, Barcelona’s squad includes former Dortmund star Robert Lewandowski, adding another interesting storyline to the game. Dortmund has shown form in the Champions League with key wins over teams like Dinamo Zagreb. However, injuries could affect team dynamics. Barcelona, meanwhile, has had mixed results lately, managing a solid win against Brest but only drawing against teams like Real Betis that they might have expected to beat more easily. The absence of key Dortmund players due to injuries could be crucial at Signal-Iduna-Park, with both teams highly motivated, adding weight to their pursuit of top European honors.
Borussia Dortmund vs Barcelona Prediction & Betting Tip
This Champions League match promises to be a tight contest as both Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona need a win to improve their chances of advancing in the knockout phase. Dortmund may not be the favorites, but their home record presents a significant challenge to Barcelona. While the odds lean slightly towards Barcelona, Dortmund’s excellent recent home form could tilt things in their favor. With current form and circumstances in mind, the prediction favors a Dortmund win on home ground, especially considering Barcelona’s recent inconsistencies.
| Borussia Dortmund vs Barcelona Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Borussia Dortmund to win | 3.4 |
Borussia Dortmund vs Barcelona Odds
Barcelona enters the match as the favorite, with odds of 2.06, indicating a slightly higher chance of victory compared to Dortmund. However, the home advantage for Dortmund, with odds of 3.21 for a win, suggests they have the potential to surprise the visitors. This game is expected to be high-scoring, with good odds for both teams to score, pegged at 1.39. The dynamics hint at a match that could easily see over 3.5 goals scored.
| Borussia Dortmund vs Barcelona Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Home Win | 3.21 |
| Draw | 3.94 |
| Away Win | 2.06 |
Borussia Dortmund vs Barcelona Live Streaming: UEFA Champions League – India
The UEFA Champions League broadcast in India is with the Sony Sports Network. The SonyLiv Website and App have the live streaming rights. Fans can watch Borussia Dortmund vs Barcelona live streaming on SonyLiv at 1:30 AM on Thursday, December 12.
Borussia Dortmund Team Analysis
Borussia Dortmund Recent Performance
Dortmund’s recent performances demonstrate a confident team in the Champions League, highlighted by a 3-0 win against Dinamo Zagreb on their turf. In the Bundesliga, Dortmund has experienced mixed results, drawing against Borussia Mönchengladbach and Bayern Munich, both ending 1-1. In the Champions League, Dortmund’s solid performances have been highlighted by scoring 16 goals in five matches, showing their powerful attacking capabilities. Although they’ve shown some vulnerabilities domestically, their European playing style seems well-suited for the upcoming high-stakes clash with Barcelona.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Borussia Dortmund | Bayern Munich | 1-1 |
| Borussia Dortmund | Dinamo Zagreb | 3-0 |
| Borussia Dortmund | Freiburg | 4-0 |
| Mainz 05 | Borussia Dortmund | 3-1 |
| Borussia Moenchengladbach | Borussia Dortmund | 1-1 |
Borussia Dortmund Key Players
In attack, Serhou Guirassy is a key player for Dortmund, recognized for his keen scoring instincts as their top scorer in the Champions League. The defensive backbone includes Gregor Kobel as goalkeeper, whose vital saves can make a difference against Barcelona. Defenders Julian Ryerson and Emre Can provide needed stability. Felix Nmecha is an important link between defense and attack, focusing on dealing with transitions. Marcel Sabitzer in midfield poses a dual threat with his work rate and creativity essential to their pressing game. Jamie Bynoe-Gittens is expected to exploit space using his speed, putting pressure on Barcelona’s defenses. If Karim Adeyemi returns, his pace would offer more offensive options for Dortmund, potentially changing outcomes in key moments.
Borussia Dortmund Suspensions & Injuries
Dortmund faces some injury challenges as they prepare to take on Barcelona. Key player Karim Adeyemi is doubtful due to a hamstring injury, which could be significant given his speed on the wings. Julian Brandt is also absent with a similar injury, complicating coach Nuri Sahin’s plans, as Brandt might not be available until late December. Defensive options are already stretched, with Niklas Süle out with an ankle injury until early February. Players like Waldemar Anton and Filippo Mané are nursing groin and muscle injuries but are expected back by month’s end. With these absences, tactical flexibility may be restricted, forcing Dortmund to make the most of their squad depth against Barcelona’s offense.
| Player | Injury/Suspension | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Karim Adeyemi | Hamstring Injury | Doubtful |
| Julian Brandt | Hamstring Injury | Late December 2024 |
| Waldemar Anton | Groin Injury | Late December 2024 |
| Filippo Mané | Muscle Injury | Late December 2024 |
| Niklas Süle | Ankle Injury | Early February 2025 |
| Maximilian Beier | Knock Injury | A few days |
Borussia Dortmund Tactics and Formation
Nuri Sahin is expected to deploy a 4-3-3 formation, balancing defensive solidity with attacking opportunities. In this setup, Donyell Malen could be crucial on the right flank, using his speed to unsettle Barcelona’s defense. Dortmund’s tactic relies on fast counter-attacks, emphasizing Guirassy’s scoring potential. In midfield, Felix Nmecha could play a key role in breaking up Barcelona’s attacks. Wide players like Jamie Bynoe-Gittens will look to exploit any weaknesses in Barcelona’s defense. In defense, Emre Can and Nico Schlotterbeck are likely to take central roles, ensuring Dortmund’s stability against Barcelona’s renowned attacking players. Dortmund will need adaptability in their tactics to counter Barcelona’s strategies in midfield and attack.
Barcelona Team Analysis
Barcelona Recent Performance
Barcelona enters this match after a period of mixed performances. They recently drew 2-2 with Real Betis and suffered a 1-2 loss to Las Palmas, signaling some vulnerabilities. However, they’ve shown dominance in the Champions League, notably in a 3-0 win over Brest. Robert Lewandowski remains central to Barcelona’s success, leading the season’s goals with seven. The team’s midfield is key to managing the game against Dortmund. Barcelona’s defense has been solid at times but showed lapses that Dortmund might exploit.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Barcelona | Las Palmas | 1-2 |
| Mallorca | Barcelona | 1-5 |
| Celta Vigo | Barcelona | 2-2 |
| Barcelona | Brest | 3-0 |
| Real Betis | Barcelona | 2-2 |
Barcelona Key Players
Robert Lewandowski is Barcelona’s leading offensive threat, with his experience and knowledge of Dortmund adding spice to the contest. Iñaki Peña is key in goal, tasked with thwarting Dortmund’s potent attacks. In midfield, Pedri’s skill will be crucial for pacing play and creating opportunities. On defense, Jules Kounde provides stability and assists with shifting from defense to attack. Dani Olmo offers vision and drive, making crucial plays. Raphinha, using his pace, will test Dortmund’s flanks. Rising talent Lamine Yamal lends energy and variability to the wing, bringing unpredictability to Barcelona’s offense.
Barcelona Suspensions & Injuries
Barcelona faces significant injury concerns with Marc-Andre ter Stegen out due to a season-ending cruciate ligament injury. Ansu Fati’s return to training after a hamstring injury strengthens the team’s attack. Andreas Christensen is in rehabilitation for his Achilles injury and has started light training. Dani Olmo’s fitness is uncertain, which might affect Barcelona’s attacking plans. The temporary suspension of coach Hansi Flick adds uncertainty in tactical guidance, though appeals might influence availability. Pedri’s return offers creativity, but his condition must be managed to prevent further issues. These injuries and potential coaching changes could lead to last-minute strategy tweaks before facing Dortmund.
| Player | Injury/Suspension | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Andreas Christensen | Achilles tendon injury | Back in training |
| Marc Bernal | Cruciate ligament injury | Early May 2025 |
| Marc-Andre ter Stegen | Cruciate ligament injury | Out for season |
| Ansu Fati | Hamstring Injury | Back in training |
| Dani Olmo | Potential injury concerns | Uncertain |
Barcelona Tactics and Formation
Hansi Flick is likely to use a 4-3-3 formation, aiming for effective coordination between midfield and attack. Central to this approach will be Lewandowski’s ability to convert chances into goals, a skill rooted in his comprehensive experience. Pedri will be vital in midfield, managing ball distribution and controlling play. In defense, Inigo Martinez plays a critical role in maintaining a solid backline. The strategy will likely focus on exploiting wing play, with Raphinha and Yamal stretching Dortmund’s defense. Flick’s plan will emphasize high-pressure play and controlling possession, aiming to place Dortmund’s defense under constant scrutiny in hopes of forcing mistakes and swiftly capitalizing on transitions.
Borussia Dortmund vs Barcelona Head-to-Head Statistics
The head-to-head record shows Barcelona having a slight edge, with one win and one draw in their last two matches. The most recent encounter saw Barcelona win 3-1, highlighting their ability to seize key moments in past matches. Dortmund aims for their first official UEFA victory against Barcelona, hoping to overturn the current narrative. A past draw indicates Dortmund has defensive resilience against Barcelona, but they need to convert this into an offensive advantage to secure a win. Overall, though Barcelona has shown dominance, past records reflect closely contested matches.
| Home | Away | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Barcelona | Borussia Dortmund | 3-1 |
| Borussia Dortmund | Barcelona | 0-0 |
Venue and Weather
The game will be held at Signal-Iduna-Park, known for its imposing atmosphere, where Dortmund’s fans play a significant role in boosting their team’s performance. Weather forecasts predict a clear, crisp night, with temperatures around 1.96°C at kickoff. Players might struggle with the cold air, potentially affecting stamina. However, calm winds mean play shouldn’t be disrupted, allowing teams to focus on tactics without worrying about weather challenges. Despite the chill, the evening’s strategic focus will favor technical gameplay, keeping players attuned to their planned executions.
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