Barcelona will play hosts to Liverpool at the Nou Camp on Wednesday night hoping to get a favourable result in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final. The Catalans are enjoying a rich vein of form and managed to clinch the La Liga title last weekend which will give them a lot of confidence heading into this clash.
The Spanish giants have won four consecutive matches across all competitions, but they can still expect a difficult outing in midweek as the Reds are enjoying one of their best seasons in the Premier League era. Furthermore, Jurgen Klopp’s men know what it takes to go all the way to the final of the Champions League after they managed to do so last season.
Hence, Ernesto Valverde might have to implement a few tactical adjustments so that his side has the best possible chance of clinching a victory later this week. Here are three changes Barca should make to get the better of Liverpool in front of their home supporters.
Go With More Energy In Midfield
Arturo Vidal has performed well at the centre of the park over the past few weeks, but he might prove to be a disadvantage in midweek as he does not have the legs and work ethic to cope with the energetic Liverpool midfielders. So maybe, going with the midfield three of Sergio Busquets, Ivan Rakitic and Arthur Melo could be the way to go for Valverde on Wednesday night.
Suarez Should Target Van Dijk’s Centre-back Partner To Get More Joy Up Top
Luis Suarez should look to expose whoever Klopp decides to play alongside Virgil Van Dijk if he wants to get more joy from this European encounter. The Dutch centre-half was recently named PFA Player of the Year due to his stellar campaign at the back thus far. Hence, it might not be wise for Suarez to play against him as he could be starved of opportunities in front of goal.
Switch Messi’s Position From Time To Time
Lionel Messi will once again be Barca’s greatest weapon in the opposition half. Hence, it might be a wise move if Valverde gave him the license to switch flanks during the contest. One can argue that Andrew Robertson is a better defender than Trent Alexander-Arnold so the Argentine superstar should focus on testing both of Klopp’s full-backs on Wednesday night.
