Barca Blaugranes - UEFA Champions League: AC Milan vs FC Barcelona: Full Match Coverage#GraciesTitohttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47187/barca-fave.png2013-02-20T23:04:11+01:00http://www.barcablaugranes.com/rss/stream/37699652013-02-20T23:04:11+01:002013-02-20T23:04:11+01:00UCL: Milan 2-0 Barcelona: Match Review
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<figcaption>Claudio Villa</figcaption>
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<p>Well this makes things difficult...</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona</a> were simply atrocious on Wednesday night, crashing to a 2-0 defeat against AC Milan at the San Siro. The defeat leaves Barcelona teetering on the brink of elimination ahead of the second-leg at the Camp Nou and to be frank, Milan deserved to win. They may have had their fair share of luck, particularly with <span>Kevin-Prince Boateng</span>’s opening goal, but they put in a disciplined performance, nullifying the free-scoring Blaugrana attack for the full 90 minutes. However, contrary to popular belief, Barcelona are not eliminated yet, and while unlikely, they could still secure their place in the quarter-finals. After all, for all the talk of away goals is it really impossible to conceive a reality in which Barça force extra-time with a 2-0 win of their own?</p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Milan</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Barcelona</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Possession</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>27%</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>73%</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Total Shots</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>8</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>7</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Shots on Target</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>3</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>1</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Pass Accuracy</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>73%</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>90%</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Fouls</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>16</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>10</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Offsides</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>4</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>2</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Yellow Cards</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>2</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>2</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Red Cards</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>0</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>0</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Jordi Roura sent out his strongest XI, as Xavi returned from injury to start in midfield alongside Cecs Fàbregas. That meant a place on the left-hand side of attack for Andrés Iniesta, while Pedro was preferred to Alexis Sánchez on the opposite flank. Would Barcelona escape the San Siro with a favourable result?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">In truth, the first-half was a cagey affair. Milan started well, pressing the Blaugrana defense who struggled to adapt to the game’s early tempo. However, Barcelona soon settled into their groove, dominating possession against their Serie A counterparts – but for all their possession, Barça struggled to create anything of note in the first 45 minutes.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Credit to Milan for defending so resolutely, and in particular, to their midfield who were doing an excellent job in limiting <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi" class="sbn-auto-link">Lionel Messi</a>’s influence on the game but even if Messi was being effectively marked out of the game, where was his supporting cast? Cesc Fàbregas was virtually nowhere to be found and much the same could be said of Andrés Iniesta, while Xavi – who managed Barcelona’s only shot on target in the opening period – was misplacing a number of passes.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">On the other hand, while Milan were defending well, they also created very little in the way of chances. <span>Stephan El Shaarawy</span> was causing problems on the left with his blistering pace, but his touch often let him down and as a result, neither he nor Milan mustered a single shot on target in an uneventful first half.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The second half started in the same vein, neither side were able to create chances from open play, and who knows? Maybe the referee got bored with the lack of chances? Whatever reason he had, it’s safe to say he made a huge mistake around the hour-mark, allowing Milan’s opener to stand despite a clear handball from <a href="https://www.villarrealusa.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Villarreal</a> loanee Cristian Zapata. Granted, the Colombian had little time to react as <span>Sulley Muntari</span>’s speculative free-kick ricocheted off <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves" class="sbn-auto-link">Dani Alves</a>, but his arms were in an unnatural position and the incident certainly affected play as Kevin-Prince Boateng duly dispatched the loose ball to give the Rossoneri the lead. Barca, incredulous with the Scottish official’s decision argued their case, but only made matters worse as Gerard Piqué picked up a yellow card for dissent.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The Blaugrana responded by withdrawing Cesc Fàbregas for Alexis Sánchez, a clear attacking change from Jordi Roura who hoped that the Chilean could drag Barça back into contention. This was where a fully-fit <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110874/david-villa" class="sbn-auto-link">David Villa</a> would have been useful, but of course El Guaje is sidelined with kidney stones. Not that Villa’s injury is a valid excuse for tonight’s result. On the basis of play, Barcelona deserved to lose, and Milan deserved to win – it’s as simple as that. Sulley Muntari doubled Milan’s lead on 81 minutes with a well-taken volley; effectively securing Milan’s place in the quarter-finals, or at least leaving Barcelona with a mammoth task in the second-leg at the Camp Nou.</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/20/4010468/uefa-champions-league-ac-milan-2-0-fc-barcelona-match-reviewArron Duckling2013-02-20T20:10:46+01:002013-02-20T20:10:46+01:00UCL: Injuries, Lineups, Tactics, and Matchups
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<img alt="Abbiati and Messi will be protagonists again" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/EfEbgAc0HXGK8B9ovVyCpAvEuPY=/0x44:917x655/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/8431103/124864867.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Abbiati and Messi will be protagonists again | Jasper Juinen</figcaption>
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<p>The UEFA Champions League continues as Barca travel to Milan for a round of 16 match. Who is out injured, who will play, and which matchups are important? Can Barca defend Stephan El Shaarawy? Can the shaky Rossoneri defense contain Lionel Messi, Xavi, and Andres Iniesta?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Champions League football is about an hour away for <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a>, as they take on AC Milan at the San Siro.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Injury Updates:</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Barca will not be able to count on <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110874/david-villa">David Villa</a> who recovers from his kidney problems, <span>Eric Abidal</span> who is recovering from a liver tumor, and Adriano who has a thigh injury.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Meanwhile, Milan are without <span>Daniele Bonera</span> (left thigh), <span>Luca Antonini</span> (knee), <span>Nigel De Jong</span> (Achilles tendon), <span>Mathieu Flamini</span> (muscle), <span>Antonio Nocerino</span> (hamstring), and Robinho (knee inflammation).</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Lineups:</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona (4-3-3): Valdes; Alves, Pique, Puyol, Alba; Busquets, Xavi, Cesc; Iniesta, Messi, Pedro</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Milan (4-3-3): Abbiati; Abate, Mexes, Zapata, Constant; Montolivo, Ambrosini, Muntari; Boateng, Pazzini, El Shaarawy.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Tactical Matchups</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Barca will press high up the pitch, as they will no doubt have most of the possession throughout the match. On the other hand, Milan will sit back, stay narrow, and try to break quickly to score on the counter.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="http://this11.com/boards/abEioVeacj.jpg"></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Alba vs. Boateng</i></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">With Andres Iniesta cutting inside on the left wing, <span>Jordi Alba</span> will have to bomb down the flank to give Barca proper width. <span>Kevin-Prince Boateng</span> will play a large role in how the Rossoneri defend. He is likely to try to help with the press, but he will also need to keep track of Alba. If the Catalan can get down the flank, he can cause problems for <span>Ignazio Abate</span> and <span>Philippe Mexes</span>. I imagine <span>Sulley Muntari</span> will be the midfield man closest, but he may be occupied by the movement of either <span>Cesc Fabregas</span> or <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Messi vs. Muntari / Ambrosini and everyone else</i></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Messi is the key man of course for Barca, playing in the central striker position. The Argentine is bound to drift back into midfield, at which point Milan will have to make a choice. Will they follow him, leaving space in behind? Or will they let him go, and risk giving Messi of all people time and space? Rumors are that Muntari is the man tasked with following Messi wherever he goes. Milan owner <span>Silvio Berlusconi</span> even declared to the press that his team should mark Messi with two players. Whoever they are, they will have their hands full.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Alves vs El Shaarawy</i></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves">Dani Alves</a> is one of the most fearsome right-backs in the world when it comes to attack. An unselfish, fast player, he likes to get down to the flank and seek his partner-in-crime Messi or try to set up Pedro Rodriguez. <span>Stephan El Shaarawy</span> has been Milan's best player and he is the most dangerous threat to score against Barca. With Alves pushing forward on the flank, will <i>Il Faraone </i>risk staying in attack? If he does, Alves can cause problems by overloading <span>Kevin Constant's</span> flank, but at the same time, if Milan recover possession, El Shaarawy will be in a great position to score himself.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Conclusion</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Kickoff aproaches and we have two different situations on either side. Barcelona has familiarity. Anyone could have predicted this lineup two months ago, barring the odd injury. On the other hand, Milan are a bit more unpredictable. With De Jong, Nocerino and Flamini out, Muntari and Ambrosini are almost the only choices in defensive midfield. There is some unfamiliarity in the XI, especially without Mario Ballotelli. Just as the Rossoneri were getting comfortable with him, they will have to play without him and bring back Giampaolo Pazzini as the central striker.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Will the understanding and intricate interplay of the Catalans win out? Or will the team spirit and flashes of unpredictability from Milan, buoyed by a roaring home crowd, shock the world?</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/20/4009470/uefa-champions-league-fc-barcelona-vs-ac-milan-injuries-lineups-andLuis Mazariegos2013-02-20T19:39:33+01:002013-02-20T19:39:33+01:00AC Milan vs FC Barcelona: Live Game Thread
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<figcaption>David Ramos</figcaption>
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<p>Live game thread for the UEFA Champions League between AC Milan and FC Barcelona.</p> <p align="center"><br>UEFA Champions League: Round of 16 First Leg<br>Kickoff: Wednesday, 20 February 2013; 20:45 CET<br>San Siro, Milan<br>Referee: Craig Thomson</p>
<p align="justify">Line-ups:</p>
<p align="justify">AC Milan (4-3-3): Christian Abbiati; Ignazio Abate, Philippe Mexès, Cristián Zapata, Kévin Constant; Riccardo Montolivo, Massimo Ambrosini, Sulley Ali Muntari; Kevin-Prince Boateng, Giampaolo Pazzini, Stephan El Shaarawy</p>
<p align="justify">Substitutes: Marko Amelia, Mario Yepes, Mattia De Sciglio, Bryan Cristante, Bakaye Traoré, Bojan Krkić, M'Baye Niang</p>
<p align="justify">FC <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> (4-3-3): Victor Valdes; Dani Alves, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110856/carles-puyol">Carles Puyol</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110855/gerard-pique">Gerard Pique</a>, Jordi Alba; <span>Sergio Busquets</span>, Cesc Fabregas, Xavi; Pedro, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, Andres Iniesta</p>
<p align="justify">Substitutes: Jose Manuel Pinto, <span>Martin Montoya</span>, Javier Mascherano, <span>Alex Song</span>, Thiago, Cristian Tello, Alexis Sanchez</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/20/4009302/uefa-champions-league-ac-milan-vs-fc-barcelona-live-game-threadBostjan Cernensek2013-02-20T09:20:13+01:002013-02-20T09:20:13+01:00Predict the Score: Barcelona vs AC Milan
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<figcaption>Maurizio Lagana</figcaption>
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<p>A chance to predict the score of tonight's UEFA Champions League encounter between La Liga leaders FC Barcelona, and fourth-placed AC MIlan</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">1992, 2011; each time the UEFA Chamoions League final has been contested at Wembley, FC <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona</a> have emerged victorious - so, what chance they make it a Wembley "three-peat" this year? Certainly, the Blaugrana are amongst the favourites to lift the trophy in May, and if recent competitions are any indication, we should expect Barca to reach the semi-final stage - at minimum. However, when has it ever been easy? Sure, AC Milan might not be as good as they once were, but like any team that has reached the last sixteen, they have done so on merit and as such, they cannot be written off. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">However, based on league position alone. Milan aren't even one of the top three teams in Italy, while Barcelona stand head and shoulders above their peers in La Liga. Given that Milan couldn't defeat Malaga in the group stage, what hope do they have of defeating the mighty Blaugrana? Talismanic striker <span>Stephan El Shaarawy</span> might be lighting up Serie A, but he only scored twice in the group stages; is he really Milan's biggest threat? There are so many questions surrounding this Rossoneri side, but they have a chance to provide us - and the world - with an answer tonight. Here's your chance to predict the result of tonight's match by voting in our poll below, and be sure to comment with your prediction. Best of luck!</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/20/4008044/uefa-champions-league-ac-milan-vs-fc-barcelona-predict-the-scoreArron Duckling2013-02-19T23:01:39+01:002013-02-19T23:01:39+01:00UCL: Barcelona vs AC Milan: Match Preview
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<figcaption>Claudio Villa</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A preview of Barcelona's UEFA Champions League first-leg clash with AC Milan at the San Siro</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> travel to Milan tomorrow, where they return to UEFA Champions League action against a familiar foe: <span>Massimiliano Allegri</span>’s AC Milan. The two sides faced each other no less than four times last season – twice in the group stage and twice in the quarter-finals – and Milan failed to win even a single match, crashing out of the competition as a result, which, coupled with the Rossoneri’s failure to reclaim the Scudetto, led to a summer fire-sale at the San Siro. From superstars like Zlatan Ibrahimovic and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/141782/thiago-silva">Thiago Silva</a>, to experienced squad members such as <span>Alessandro Nesta</span> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110488/mark-van-bommel">Mark Van Bommel</a>, Milan opted to completely rebuild their squad – and have suffered as a result.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Admittedly there have been positives to this process, and even the most optimistic Milanisti will point out that this project is a work-in-progress. Unfortunately, if Allegri harbours any hopes of reaching the last eight, he needs his side to perform like they are the finished product – even if that means relying heavily upon the talented <span>Stephan El Shaarawy</span>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">In an article for <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer" target="_blank">SB Nation’s Soccer section</a>, resident Italian football expert <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Jack%20Sargeant">Jack Sargeant</a> highlighted the Italian’s importance in Allegri’s 4-3-3, but also drew attention to Milan’s lengthy injury list, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2013/2/19/4002174/ac-milan-barcelona-injuries-2013-uefa-champions-league" target="_blank">pondering whether a weakened Rossoneri midfield will be able to compete with Barcelona.</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><i>Il Faraone represents a quick counter-attacking threat, dribbling inside on his stronger foot. Should he get in behind the notoriously offensive right-back <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves">Dani Alves</a>, he’s liable to cause problems. Of course, if El Shaarawy is the key, a lot will hang on whether Milan can get the ball to him at all. With a full strength team they may have had a chance. With an unfamiliar and weakened midfield combination against a side who require such tactical discipline and unity, it's hard to be optimistic.</i></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2013/2/19/4002174/ac-milan-barcelona-injuries-2013-uefa-champions-league" target="_blank"><b><i>AC Milan's Midfield Woes Leave Little Room For Optimism</i></b></a></p>
</blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">(Note: This quote was pieced together from various sections within the article itself)</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">So, while Milan possess one of the most talented youngsters in World Football, do Barcelona really have cause for concern? Much like <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110874/david-villa">David Villa</a>, El Shaarawy often looks to cut inside, meaning he can often appear one-dimensional and when all is said and done, SES may be impressive, but is he really any more dangerous than Ibrahimovic? While Dani Alves’ offensive escapades can leave the Blaugrana vulnerable to counter-attacks, one can also argue that with a less than 100% El-Shaarawy on the field, Milan may be at a distinct disadvantage from a defensive standpoint as someone will have to cover the Brazilian’s marauding runs. When you consider that Allegri is likely to start a converted midfielder – <span>Kevin Constant</span> – at left-back, it’s easy to see why so many believe this tie will be won (and lost) on Barça’s right-flank.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">*****</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Another key talking point prior to the match tomorrow revolves around Xavi, and whether the influential Catalan midfielder will make his return from injury at the San Siro. In an ideal world, Xavi would have never been injured and therefore would have simply missed Saturday’s win over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/granada">Granada</a> through choice but does it really matter? Xavi was technically rested for Saturday’s win anyway meaning that he <i>could </i>be at 100% for tomorrow’s crunch encounter and that means that he <i>could </i>start. On the other hand, with Cesc Fàbregas, Andrés Iniesta and Thiago Alcântara all vying for a starting berth in midfield; one might argue that Barcelona can almost afford to leave Xavi on the bench.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Over on <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer" target="_blank">SB Nation Soccer</a>,<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/authors/zach-woosley" target="_blank"> Zach Woosley</a> crunched the numbers in an attempt to maintain <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2013/2/19/4005040/xavi-hernandez-fc-barcelona-vs-milan-2013-uefa-champions-league" target="_blank">whether or not Xavi does make a difference to Barcelona’s overall style of play</a>. Naturally, the sample size is pretty small and there are issues regarding the quality of opposition in the games that Xavi has missed, but the table makes for interesting reading.</p>
<div align="center">
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 522pt; border-collapse: collapse; border: none;" width="696" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr>
<td style="border:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt"></td>
<td style="border:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt: inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">Games Played</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt: inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">Goals Per Game</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt: inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">Possession%/Game</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt: inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">Shots on Target/Game</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt: inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">Shot Attempts/Game</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt: inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">with Xavi</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">29</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">2.93</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">67.3</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">6.3</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">13.9</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt: inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">without Xavi</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">6</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">3.16</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">67.1</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">8</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">17</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt: inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">Xavi subbed in</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">4</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">2.75</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">65.5</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">8.25</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt; border-right:inset #AAAAAA 1.0pt;mso-border-top-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; mso-border-left-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt;mso-border-alt:inset #AAAAAA .75pt; padding:2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt 2.25pt">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; line-height:115%">14.25</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">As you can see, Barcelona – on average – score more goals, take more shots and register more shots on target per game <b><i>without </i></b>Xavi in midfield.</p>
<blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><i>This could be an anomaly, but it could also show us that there is a difference in how Barcelona goes about their play without Xavi controlling things in the midfield. There's nothing truly concrete here, but it's something to think about. </i></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2013/2/19/4005040/xavi-hernandez-fc-barcelona-vs-milan-2013-uefa-champions-league" target="_blank"><b><i>The Present and Future of Barcelona, de-Xavi'd</i></b></a></p>
</blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">As we’ve previously mentioned, Barcelona have been a little more direct under <span>Tito Vilanova</span> compared to their time under <span>Pep Guardiola</span>, and on the basis of Zach’s findings, we could probably extend that further to say that Barça are a little more direct without Xavi in midfield. Whether that’s a positive or a negative remains to be seen – and of course no-one is suggesting that the Blaugrana should bench Xavi just for the sake of it, but it does mean that Barça would probably be fine without their vice-captain on the field.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>TEAM NEWS</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>BARCELONA</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p>
<div style="text-align: justify;" class="read-more">
<strong>READ</strong>: <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/19/4003772/champions-league-what-should-tito-do-lining-up-barcelona-against-ac/in/3769965" target="_blank">UEFA Champions League: What Should Tito Do? Lining Up Barcelona Against AC Milan</a>
</div>
<p><b> </b></p>
<div style="text-align: justify;"><b><b>AC MILAN<br><br></b></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;" class="read-more">
<strong>READ</strong>: <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/18/4000718/ac-milan-barcelonas-next-champions-league-foes-scouting-report" target="_blank">UEFA Champions League: AC Milan Scout Report</a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br></div>
</div>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/18/4000718/ac-milan-barcelonas-next-champions-league-foes-scouting-report" target="_blank"></a><b>FORM GUIDE</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona: WWDDWW</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">AC Milan: DWWWDW</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>LAST MEETING</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">FC Barcelona 3-1 AC Milan – 3 April 2012 – UEFA Champions League</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Two penalties from <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and a rare goal from Andrés Iniesta secured Barcelona’s place in the final four, where they would face Chelsea. There were question marks surrounding the "validity" of the penalty decisions, but composed as ever, Messi duly tucked away both spot-kicks thus rendering <span>Antonio Nocerino</span>’s equaliser irrelevant.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>LIKELY LINE-UPS</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona (4-3-3): Valdés; Alves, Piqué, Puyol, Alba; Busquets, Xavi, Fàbregas; Pedro, Messi, Iniesta</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">AC Milan (4-3-3): Abbiati; Abate, Mexes, Zapata, Constant; Montolivo, Nocerino, Ambrosini; Boateng, Pazzini, El Shaarawy</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>MATCH PREDICTION</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Lest we forget that Barcelona typically struggle away from home in the UEFA Champions League, particularly against strong opposition like AC Milan so, while I do believe the Blaugrana have what it takes to win, it’s going to be a close-run thing. My head says draw, but I’m going with a second successive 2-1 victory.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/19/4005924/uefa-champions-league-ac-milan-vs-fc-barcelona-full-match-coverage">For more coverage of tomorrow's match, be sure to check out our UEFA Champions League StoryStream.</a></p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/19/4006410/uefa-champions-league-ac-milan-vs-fc-barcelona-match-previewArron Duckling2013-02-19T18:41:51+01:002013-02-19T18:41:51+01:00Champions League: Barca's Keys to Beat Milan
<figure>
<img alt="Boateng vs. Busquets will be a key matchup again" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/1zqtkFysIA0IuUyK4zueEbDiDAg=/0x42:922x657/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/8369153/133994064.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Boateng vs. Busquets will be a key matchup again | Claudio Villa</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>European football returns! Barcelona face AC Milan in the Champions League. Who will shine - Stephan El Shaarawy or Lionel Messi? Can the Blaugrana get the result at the San Siro or will it be Milan? If Barca want to win, they will need to concentrate on these factors.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">FC <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona</a> will be taking their first steps in the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League as they visit AC Milan. The Catalans are eyeing the incoming Clasicos against Real Madrid as well, and Milan are worried about a city derby match against Inter on the horizon</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Barca come into this match following a nervous league game against <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/granada" class="sbn-auto-link">Granada</a> in which <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi" class="sbn-auto-link">Lionel Messi</a> scored two second-half goals to rescue three points after the Andalusians had taken the lead. Meanwhile, Milan were a bit more comfortable in their 2-1 victory over Parma, as they led 2-0 until conceding a last-minute consolation goal.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If Barcelona are to claim victory, they will need to pay special attention to some key elements. The following are three of those important factors.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Beating the Press</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">No, not punching Gazzetta dello Sport. This means that when Barcelona start to build their attacks from deep positions, Milan will rush in to disrupt the play. Barca have to be particularly wary of this and be able to move the ball around the incoming Rossoneri players. If they do that, the road ahead will be more clear.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Milan will probably use three forwards - Giampaolo Pazzini in the center, <span>Stephan El Shaarawy</span> on the left, and <span>Kevin-Prince Boateng</span> on the right. <span>Bojan Krkic</span> and M'Baye Niang are also options, though they are likely to be subs.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Boateng is particularly adept at disrupting play because he is fast and strong. Against Juventus a few weeks back, Boateng was often seen pressing <span>Andrea Pirlo</span>, and the Italian superstar did not have a good day. Milan won that match 1-0. Boateng will likely face off against <span>Sergio Busquets</span> this time, and how good the Catalan responds will largely dictate how fluid Barca are in their attacks.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">El Shaarawy has been singled out for his goalscoring prowess, and rightly so, but his role will be a bit less flashy and a bit more sacrificial as he defends his side against the likes of Daniel Alves. Pazzini is known more for his hold-up play and is less mobile, but he will also participate in the press.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The front three will be secure in the knowledge that Milan will have good replacements should their energy dwindle, and <span>Mario Balotelli</span> will be available for their next match and thus give one of them a bit of rest.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If Barcelona can break past the initial wave of pressing, they will go into the opposition half with less players parking the bus. Then, Barca will become extremely dangerous.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Getting Width</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The last time Barca and Milan met at the San Siro, the Rossoneri head coach Max Allegri opted to play a very narrow and deep defense. With the Blaugrana trying to attack the middle of the box, and with a severely poor pitch, Milan were able to keep a clean sheet.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In the return leg, <span>Isaac Cuenca</span> was selected on the wing for the home team. Cuenca did not necessarily produce much in the way of end product per se, but he did stretch the pitch, allowing Andres Iniesta and Messi more space to try their clever combinations.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Pedro Rodriguez must try to stay wide if he can to give the team balance. On the other side, with Iniesta in all probability playing the left-wing role, the responsibility to give width will go to <span>Jordi Alba</span>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Boateng will be worried about defending a bit more, so Alba can be brave... but he must also watch out and be intelligent enough to pick the right times to fly up the flank.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Cuenca is on loan after a long-term injury, but Cristian Tello or Alexis Sanchez are options to stretch the play if the starting XI is having trouble. <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110874/david-villa" class="sbn-auto-link">David Villa</a> is still recovering from kidney issues and will be unavailable.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Some fans may moan at the prospect of playing Alexis after the Chilean missed key chances in the last match, but this is the type of game Alexis is meant to play. Will a return to Italy reignite Alexis, will he falter yet again, or will the coaching staff not even use him?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Whoever winds up playing, the key is to open up the pitch for the best players in the world - Xavi, Iniesta, and Messi.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Set Pieces</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona actually do not concede that many set pieces goals despite the players' short stature. Their effective use of zonal marking at corners has made up for their height disadvantage more often than not.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">However, Milan are a tall team that is good at winning aerial duels. Barca are unlikely to get much joy through the air, as the Milan defense are good at set piece defending as well.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Let's assume for a second that Milan line up with the players I guessed in <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/18/4000718/ac-milan-barcelonas-next-champions-league-foes-scouting-report">the scouting report yesterday</a>. The average height of all eleven players is 6'0'', or 1.83 inches. (The <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/Big_Fais/status/303873644692643841/photo/1">lineup Sky Sports Italia is predicting</a>, by the way, has only two variations from my prediction, and both players are slightly taller.)</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">For comparison's sake, let's look at the likely XI Barca will use: Victor Valdes; Alves, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110855/gerard-pique" class="sbn-auto-link">Gerard Pique</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110856/carles-puyol" class="sbn-auto-link">Carles Puyol</a>, Alba; Busquets, Xavi, <span>Cesc Fabregas</span>; Iniesta, Messi, Pedro.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Of those, Valdes is 6'0'', Pique is 6'4'', Busquets is 6'2'' and a half, and everyone else is smaller than the average Milan player. Sure, <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/19/4003772/champions-league-what-should-tito-do-lining-up-barcelona-against-ac" style="background-color: #ffffff;">there could be variations in the starting XI</a>, but there aren't many tall players waiting on the bench anyway. This is not, by the way, particularly unusual for a short side like Barca's.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The issue, of course, is that Barca must be at their sharpest to defend those opportunities because they will be at a disadvantage. In the previous campaign, Los Cules gave up a late equalizer off a corner that <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/141782/thiago-silva" class="sbn-auto-link">Thiago Silva</a> headed into the net in a match against Milan. Concentration must be at its peak to prevent a recurrence.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Conclusion</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona are the favored side but by no means will it be easy at the San Siro. Milan have the physical capabilities to press Barca and make life complicated for the backline and Busquets to come out. The narrow defense will try to stifle Messi, Iniesta, and Fabregas. Milan will use their height advantage to attempt to snatch a goal on set pieces.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If Barcelona can move out of the press, stay wide, and defend set pieces, their chances of coming away with a great result increase dramatically.</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/19/4004746/champions-league-barcelonas-keys-to-win-against-ac-milanLuis Mazariegos2013-02-19T08:31:22+01:002013-02-19T08:31:22+01:00Start or Sit? Lining Up Barcelona Against Milan
<figure>
<img alt="Tito's toughest question: how and when to use Xavi?" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/excJNYqccLt1UeE3Uq7qszLJK2M=/0x119:2850x2019/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/8348445/158641766.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Tito's toughest question: how and when to use Xavi? | Victor Fraile</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Wednesday, FC Barcelona will take on AC Milan in the UEFA Chamipons League round of sixteen. With a couple of notable injuries and a busy schedule ahead, Tito Vilanova has some difficult decisions to make with his starting eleven.</p> <p align="justify">Although <span>Tito Vilanova</span> is still in New York receiving treatment for cancer, he will no doubt decide which eleven Blaugrana take the field Wednesday against AC Milan, with assistant manager Jordi Roura holding the reins come game-time. With a <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/11/3976106/barcelona-5-games-in-2-weeks-including-real-madrid-milan-coming-up">heavy match schedule</a> ahead—including the decisive Copa Clásico against Real Madrid next Wednesday—Tito may be tempted to hold back key players. This is the Champions Leauge, however, and AC Milan <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/18/4000718/ac-milan-barcelonas-next-champions-league-foes-scouting-report">is no pushover</a>. A misstep in the San Siro could spell disaster for Barcelona.</p>
<p align="justify"><b>Midfield:</b></p>
<p align="justify">Xavi is <a href="http://www.mundodeportivo.com/20130218/fc-barcelona/xavi-villa-entrenan-milan-barca_54365501770.html">ready to return to action</a>, but Wednesday would be his first appearance since injuring his hamstring against <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/valencia" class="sbn-auto-link">Valencia</a> two weeks ago. 90 minutes is allot to ask from the 33-year-old, especially considering this is only the first leg. The question is, does Tito start him in the hopes of securing a lead, then pull him off? Or does he sit Xavi, holding him in reserve for the second half?</p>
<p align="justify">Xavi's absence would make room for two midfielders beside <span>Sergio Busquets</span>—<span>Cesc Fabregas</span>, and either Andrés Iniesta or Thiago. Iniesta in midfield makes many a culé very happy, and opens the door for both Alexis and Tello up top, but Thiago is in good form, and is being groomed as Xavi's replacement. This would be a huge opportunity for him to step in to Xavi's distribution role, allowing Cesc or Iniesta to drift forward in attack.</p>
<p align="justify">Tito's decision here is no doubt the most challenging—how to arrange the midfield. Xavi or no Xavi, Iniesta will probably start, the only question is where. While Andrés is a natural midfielder, he seems to be getting more comfortable out on the left wing, and I can't recall the last time he was asked to play "Xavi" deep in midfield. Cesc, too seems to be acclimating to a more offensive role, often leading the attack up the middle. Does this mean Thiago gets the call?</p>
<p align="justify"><b>Attack:</b></p>
<p align="justify">If Mr. Alcantara does start for Xavi, Iniesta would move to the left wing, joining Messi and the increasingly reliable Pedro up top. That leaves Alexis and Tello on the bench hoping for late opportunities, of which the latter seems most deserving. Tello had an immediate and positive effect on the match against <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/granada" class="sbn-auto-link">Granada</a> when he subbed on for Alexis. Nevermind Alexis' difficulty finishing, Tello moves much better with the Barcelona attack, passing sooner and stretching the pitch further.</p>
<p align="justify"><b>Defense:</b></p>
<p align="justify">Adriano, our dear man of glass, is injured yet again—this time with a hamstring—meaning <span>Jordi Alba</span> will start. Thanks to his chemistry with Iniesta, this makes Andrés in attack even more likely. Piqué and Puyol are both healthy, which is something we can hopefully keep saying for many weeks, and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves" class="sbn-auto-link">Dani Alves</a> will be ready on the right.</p>
<p align="justify"><b>Outlook:</b></p>
<p align="justify">Everybody in the Barcelona camp will say their only concern is this match against Milan, and that the Rossoneri are a great club with lots of history and are not to be taken lightly. This sort of thinking means Iniesta and Puyol definitely start, and Xavi features prominently—either in the first or second half. But everybody knows that AC Milan isn't quite the club they used to be, and Adriano's hamstring is a reminder of just how tenuous squad fitness really is. With another match at the Nou Camp in two weeks, can't Barcelona afford to play conservatively, leaving some elder statesmen on the bench and trusting a few last-minute subs and Leo Messi will ensure at least a draw?</p>
<p align="justify">For Tito, there's really only one option: win the match. A slightly inexperienced lineup and an early goal in a hostile environment could be ugly. In many ways, the conservative approach is to go all-out and try to put the elimination to bed. Xavi in the starting XI may be the best option. "El Motorcito" is not the type to turn the game around as a 70th minute substitute—he's the man who sets the tone of the entire match from the start, and we've all seen how <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona's</a> attack frays when Thiago comes on to take his place.</p>
<p align="justify">There's a rather grim scenario that could transpire with Xavi watching the kick-off from the bench: Thiago starts, Barcelona is out of synch, and Milan grabs an early goal or two. In a desperate attempt to get back in the match, Xavi is forced into action. San Siro is absolutely on fire, and Xavi plays the toughest football there is.</p>
<p align="justify">Of course, starting a 33-year-old player who has only just received clearance ahead of the most crucial stretch of the season could also be called foolish.</p>
<p align="justify">Whatever Tito decides, we should see Barcelona attacking from the get-go and gunning for some away goals. Most importantly, Barcleona must keep their foot on the gas. With any sort of a lead, second-half rotations will be tempting, but I hope we'll see the likes of Christian Tello entering the match, and not <span>Alex Song</span>.</p>
<p align="justify">A good result in this match makes everything easier, and takes Barcelona one step closer to another "triplete".</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/19/4003772/champions-league-what-should-tito-do-lining-up-barcelona-against-acGabriel Roberts2013-02-18T18:14:21+01:002013-02-18T18:14:21+01:00AC Milan, Barcelona's Next Champions League Foes
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GuFYKEXcmI-BDmU_aILLp9Hsi3A=/0x0:2752x1835/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/8315805/160161266.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Giuseppe Bellini</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>AC Milan are one of the world's most decorated sides but they are still considered underdogs at home. Barcelona will be missing some players, most notably David Villa, while Mario Balotelli is cup-tied for Milan. What can we expect from the Rossoneri?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The trophy cabinet at AC Milan is stacked. The Italian club has won 18 international titles, joint-most in the world with Boca Juniors of Argentina. They have been world champions four times, more than any other club. Why is a team of that magnitude so unfancied?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Well, it has to do with the cost-cutting measures of <span>Silvio Berlusconi</span>, the notorious politician and the team's president, and the team's aging corps that needed to be replaced.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">On the one hand, their two best players by some distance, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/141782/thiago-silva">Thiago Silva</a>, were shipped off to Paris Saint-Germain to save money. On the other, the likes of <span>Alessandro Nesta</span>, <span>Filippo Inzaghi</span>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110367/gianluca-zambrotta">Gianluca Zambrotta</a>, <span>Gennaro Gattuso</span>, Mark van Bommel, and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/141771/clarence-seedorf">Clarence Seedorf</a>, decorated veterans all, have left on free transfers or retired.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In their place, a core of talented but young and unpolished players have struggled to reach the heights the club is used to. Teenager Stephan El Shaarawy has been phenomenal and leads the team in scoring, but Milan got off to a slow start as the squad gelled.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Form</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">At the quarter point of the season, Milan were 12th. By the halfway stage, they were seventh. Now, they sit fourth, invigorated by the midseason arrival of Mario Ballotelli from Manchester City. Crucially, however, Balotelli is cup-tied in European competitions and thus is unavailable against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Clearly, this is a team in very good form. They have only lost one out of their previous 13 league matches, and that run included a 1-0 win over the champions, Juventus.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Strategy</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Milan boss Max Allegri has made slight variations to his formation, as he has employed a 4-3-3, a 4-2-3-1, and a 4-3-2-1 at different times, but they are broadly similar.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Allegri frustrated Pep Guardiola's side last season, with an extremely narrow formation at the San Siro. That, combined with an extremely dry pitch, neutralized the slick Catalan passing attack and the match ended in a 0-0 draw.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Milan boss cannot rely on booting long balls to Ibrahimovic anymore as he did in that game, but it's likely the Rossoneri will again try to sit back narrowly and hit Barca on the break. El Shaarawy is not small, but he's not all that tall either. Instead he may need to chase a few long passes.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Allegri could bet on defensive midfielders to break up the Barca attack, or he could attempt to play fast wing players in sacrificial roles like <span>Sir Alex Ferguson</span> did against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a>. Manchester United started with <span>Wayne Rooney</span> and <span>Danny Welbeck</span> on the flanks mainly as defensive workhorses.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Key Players</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">El Shaarawy may only be nineteen, but <i>Il Faraone</i> has clearly been Milan's best player over the course of the season. The top-scorer for the side, he is also second in the Serie A scoring charts behind Napoli's Edinson Cavani.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">"SAS", as he is sometimes known, was rested in the league match against Parma as he was experiencing some discomfort in his knee. The Rossoneri faithful are optimistic that he will be fully fit to face Barca.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Balotelli has been very good since his arrival, and he's already third on the team in scoring ahead of Bojan Krkic. However, his contribution will be in moral support for this game, as he is unable to play in the Champions League having already played for City.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Milan made an enormous error letting playmaker <span>Andrea Pirlo</span> join Juventus on a free transfer two seasons ago. Pirlo was the Turin side's best player as they topped Serie A last year. This year, they've made amends, at least somewhat, with the acquisition of <span>Riccardo Montolivo</span>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Italian international is not of Pirlo's level, but he's been a consistent force in the midfield. He has recovered possession and played more passes than anyone in the team, and can deliver consistent long balls as well.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A few youngsters have caught the eyes of the fans. One is <span>M'baye Niang</span>, who recently arrived from French side Caen. Niang is exceptionally physically gifted: a six-foot-two player who can still run. Niang has been compared to Balotelli both for his on-the-field talent and his off-the-field issues.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Mattia De Sciglio</span> may not be a household name yet, but he's quietly established himself as a key player at right-back. De Sciglio is a Milan youth team product, capped at youth levels for Italy. Really on his first season as a first-team regular, De Sciglio has good tackling technique and can cross the ball playing on either flank. He is also an option at center-back.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Starting Lineup</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Christian Abbiati</span> should start in goal, and though he's not been consistently great this season, he has been good playing against Barcelona lately.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In the center of defense, two of <span>Philippe Mexes</span>, Cristian Zapata, and <span>Mario Yepes</span> will be the ones responsible for keeping <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> at bay.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">At full-back, De Sciglio could play on the right, with <span>Kevin Constant</span> on the left. However, <span>Ignazio Abate</span> could play on the right and move De Sciglio to the left side.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Luca Antonini</span> remains a fringe player, but he is an option on the left as well. <span>Daniele Bonera</span> is useful in any position along the backline, but he is coming back from an injury and unlikely to be fully fit.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Montolivo will be needed to help in ball recovery and distribution, which will leave two other spots open in midfield. <span>Antonio Nocerino</span> should take one of those spots in midfield, as he's troubled Barca in the past, including scoring a goal at the Camp Nou the last time the two sides met.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The last place on the teamsheet is a bit more difficult to predict. The poly-functional <span>Kevin-Prince Boateng</span> has been good, though not necessarily at his best, this season. (He, too, scored a goal against Barcelona in the past Champions League campaign.)</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Massimo Ambrosini or <span>Mathieu Flamini</span> are midfield players who would provide more naturally defensive options than Boateng. Meanwhile, <span>Nigel De Jong</span> is out on a long-term injury. Could Sulley Muntari, back in action after a knee injury, be part of the team?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The forward line, missing Balotelli, will be difficult to predict. Of course, SAS should start if healthy, and in all likelihood he will. The other spots could go to two of Bojan, Giampaolo Pazzini, or Niang.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Of the three, Pazzini is the most proven while Niang is the most raw. Pazzini, who was acquired in exchange for <span>Antonio Cassano</span> before this season began, is recovering fitness after an injury. Niang is seen as a great prospect but is years from achieving it.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Bojan is well-known at the Camp Nou and could be back next season, but he's yet to unleash his full potential and some question whether his development has already flatlined.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Robinho, who knows all about great promise never fulfilled, is not projected to be fit enough to take part in the match. Boateng is also an option up front. The talented but oft-injured <span>Alexandre Pato</span> has left the club in the past transfer window.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The more attacking approach is to name Boateng in midfield and play three forwards, likely El Shaarawy, Pazzini, and Niang, or possibly Bojan. The more cautious approach would be to play the likes of Flamini or Ambrosini in the middle and Boateng in an advanced midfield role, or perhaps as a wide forward.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Final Thoughts</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">AC Milan are a young team, rediscovering its identity in a trio of exciting forwards with ludicrous hair. Balotelli, El Shaarawy, and Niang are seen as the cornerstones of the post-Ibra, post-Nesta, post-Silva, post-Seedorf Milan.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">However, Niang is still young, Balotelli is cup-tied, and El Shaarawy is coming back from injury. Their moment is not now, at least, it <i>shouldn't </i>be.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But the team is solid in general - a bit suspect defensively, sure - but full of good players. At home, Milan will hope one of its good strikers, of which they have many, will score against Barca's troubled defense.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Perhaps the world is underestimating the Italian side just a bit? We will see.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Possible XI: Abbiati; De Sciglio, Mexes, Zapata, </i><i>Abate</i><i>; Montolivo, Nocerino, Ambrosini; </i><i>Boateng, </i><i>El Shaarawy, </i><i>Pazzini (4-3-3)</i></p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/2/18/4000718/ac-milan-barcelonas-next-champions-league-foes-scouting-reportLuis Mazariegos