FC Barcelona’s dream of winning the UEFA Champions League this season was dealt a huge blow this week by Italian champions, Juventus in Turin courtesy a Paulo Dybala brace and a Giorgio Chiellini header to secure a big 3-0 win.
But with Barcelona’s history in the Champions league, it would be at one’s peril to write off the Spanish champions.
Barcelona, who miraculously turned around a 4-0 deficit they suffered in the first leg of the round of 16 tie against Paris Saint-Germain, would be looking forward to doing the same against the Old lady.
However, football pundits still expect Juventus to secure the semi final spot judging by their defensive record this season in the competition.
Massimiliano Allegri’s men have conceded only two goals since the group stages and Tuesday’s lock-out of the MSN seemed orchestrated than happenstance.
The defensive prowess of Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci which is controlled by one of the best goalkeepers in the business; Gianluigi Buffon, has proved that attack wins you matches, but defence wins you titles.
If Barcelona eventually loose to Juventus, it could mean the Copa del Rey is their best bet of winning a silverware this season, as Real Madrid lead La Liga with three points; with a game in hand, and the El Clasico promising to be anybody’s game.
FC Barcelona have recently been faced with off the pitch matters to.
Contract extension talks with star player Lionel Messi, which seems to be stalling, has been a distraction coupled with Luis Enrique’s decision to quit by the end of the season.
Written by: Abdulmueez Alao
( The Article does not represent our views )
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