Manchester United vs Barcelona: Preview, head-to-head records and Fantasy XI
What's the story
English giants Manchester United are up for the biggest European test this season as they take on Barcelona in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League 2018-19 at Old Trafford in Manchester on Wednesday. While United scripted an incredible turnaround to beat Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in Paris during the pre-quarters, Barca annihilated Olympique Lyonnais. Here, we present the match preview.
Latest story
United coming off EPL loss, Barca riding on fine win
As United prepare for the Barca test, it would be under pressure as they are coming off a loss in the EPL last week. They lost to Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-2 in an away tie. The tie saw defender Ashley Young being red carded as well. As for Barca, they rode on a fine win, beating rivals Atletico Madrid 2-0 in La Liga, at home.
Team news
Paul Pogba, Lionel Messi among men to watch out
As far as teams are concerned, Paul Pogba would be the key man for United. He has been enjoying a fine form under new manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. For Barca, the focus would be on the 'Little Magician' Lionel Messi, who needs no introduction. United are likely to go in with a 4-3-3 line-up, while Barca too are likely to go with the same.
Head-to-head
Barcelona have slender edge over United
Considering the head-to-head records between the sides, Barcelona have mild edge over United. In the 11 matches between the sides, United have managed three wins, while Barca have four. Of the eight UCL ties, United have won just one, while Barca have pocketed three. At Old Trafford in UCL, United have won just one of the three ties, while Barca are yet to win.
Predicted XI
Here's the predicted Playing XI
Manchester United: David de Gea, Ashley Young, Chris Smalling, Victor Lindelof, Luke Shaw, Scott McTominay, Paul Pogba, Diogo Dalot, Jesse Lingard, Marcus Rashford, Romelu Lukaku. Barcelona: Marc-André ter Stegen, Roberto, Gerard Pique, Lenglet, Jordi Alba, Ivan Rakitic, Sergio Busquets, Arthur, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Philippe Coutinho. Dream XI: David de Gea (vice-captain), Lenglet, Lindelof, Alba, Roberto, Busquets, McTominay, Pogba, Messi (captain), Suarez, Lingard.
Match details
When, where and how to watch
Match: Manchester United (MU) vs Barcelona (BAR) Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester. Time: 12.30 AM (IST, Thursday). Where to watch (TV): Sony Ten 1/2 (also available in HD). Where to watch (Online): Sony LIV.