FC Barcelona Faces Osasuna in La Liga Showdown Following International Break

FC Barcelona returns to La Liga soccer following the international break to face Osasuna on Thursday, after a match originally scheduled for March 8 was postponed due to the death of doctor Carles Minarro Garcia. Both clubs sought a later date for the rescheduled game due to their congested fixtures but their requests were denied by La Liga.

Key Absences

FC Barcelona will miss the services of Raphinha and Ronald Araujo, who have recently returned from international play in South America. Raphinha was part of the Brazilian team that lost 4-1 in Argentina, while Araujo represented Uruguay in a goalless draw against Bolivia.

Current Standings

The team coached by Hansi Flick currently leads the La Liga standings, tied on points with Real Madrid but with one game in hand. The home side has a busy schedule, hosting Girona after this match, while Madrid will also be active on Saturday.

How to Watch

Date: March 27
Time: 4 p.m. ET
Location: Estadio Olimpico Lluís Companys, Barcelona
Watch: ESPN+
Odds: Barcelona -360; Draw +500; Osasuna +800

Last Meeting

In their last encounter on September 28, 2024, Osasuna achieved an unexpected victory, beating Barcelona 4-2, halting their perfect start to the season under Flick.

Coach Statements

Hansi Flick confirmed the unavailability of Raphinha and Araujo during a pre-match press conference, mentioning that their long travels would hinder recovery. Flick expects Inigo and Eric in the starting lineup while keeping Cubarsi on the bench for fresh legs if needed. Meanwhile, Osasuna’s Vicente Moreno prepared his squad for a tough match against a strong opponent like Barcelona.

Predicted Lineups

FC Barcelona: Szczesny; Kounde, Garcia, Martinez, Balde; Pedri, De Jong; Yamal, Olmo, Fermin; Lewandowski.

Osasuna: Herrera; Areso, Catena, Herrando, Cruz; Moncayola, Ibanez, Oroz; Ru. Garcia, Gomez, Budimir.

Player to Watch

The focus will be on Lamine Yamal, who is expected to fill the void left by Raphinha’s absence. Yamal has had an impressive run this season, netting six goals in 24 La Liga appearances, and recently shone during the UEFA Nations League.

Prediction

Despite the challenges posed by missing players, Barcelona is favored to win, aiming for a crucial three points to extend their lead over Real Madrid.