BARCELONA, Spain — Following Barcelona’s heart-breaking elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Inter Milan, coach Hansi Flick acknowledges that triumphing over Real Madrid in the upcoming crucial Clasico is the best remedy. Flick expressed this sentiment on Saturday, as Barcelona prepared to host Madrid, a match pivotal for determining the Spanish league champion.
Barcelona’s hopes for a Champions League comeback were dashed at the very last moment by Inter Milan, who equalized in extra time, leading to a thrilling 4-3 victory for the Italian team. Now destined to face Paris Saint-Germain in the European final, Inter eliminated Barcelona, which must now shift focus to securing a domestic double, thereby ensuring Real Madrid concludes the season without a major title.
Currently, Barcelona holds a four-point advantage over Madrid in La Liga and has triumphed in all three Clasicos of the season across various competitions. This includes a notable win in the Copa del Rey final. A fourth consecutive victory would be a significant achievement for Flick, marking his debut season with a notable success.
“Our discussions have centered on our plans for the upcoming two weeks,” explained the German coach. “We have four matches remaining, and tomorrow’s Clasico is critical for demonstrating our prowess and boosting our confidence.” This game holds great importance for Flick and his team as they aim to maintain their form.
Good news for Barcelona comes with the expected appearances of Alejandro Balde and Robert Lewandowski. Flick mentioned that both players are set to adjust returning in the second half of the Clasico. Balde, who was absent from the Inter match due to a left thigh injury, is likely to make a return, as youth player Gerard Martín faced challenges on the defensive line in his absence.
Lewandowski, Barcelona’s leading scorer with 40 goals this season, was out for two weeks with a similar left thigh injury and made a brief appearance in the closing moments of the match against Inter. It is anticipated that Ferran Torres will start in his place for the Sunday showdown.