FC Barcelona vs. AC Milan: Head to head again three weeks later

Barcelona (FCB).- It’s been a busy three weeks since Barça and Milan met in the first leg of the Champions League tie: FC Barcelona have beaten Seville  (2-1) and Deportivo (2-0) and lost to Real Madrid in the Spanish Cup (1-3) and the League (2-1). Although that meant they were knocked out of the Cup, they stay well out front in the La Liga. Now, the Catalans need a three-goal-distance win on Tuesday evening against AC Milan to pass through the next Champions League tie. The Italians have already arrived at the Catalan capital and, despite the first leg result, they are being cautious and refuse the favourite role considering Barça’s potential.

There have been three injuries in the squad, all muscle related: Adriano is now back and fit, Xavi is waiting for the medical okay, but should be fit for the game and Marc Bartra is definitely out. Eric Abidal has also re-joined the squad – having been giving the thumbs up from FC Barcelona’s medical staff on February 21^st.

Milan unbeaten

Meanwhile, Milan have maintained the good run of results they had been enjoying before the first leg, drawing with Inter (1-1) and beating Lazio (3-0) and Gènova (0-2) to move up into third place, two points behind Naples and 11 off Juventus.

Friday’s win against Genova could prove to be expensive for Milan though, as goal scorer Pazzini came off injured and will miss the trip to the Camp Nou, whilst centre half Mexes also picked up a knock and although he has travelled, he is a doubt for the match.