Ernesto Valverde's Barcelona are showing convincing form in both La Liga and the Champions League. In the domestic league, Barcelona is holding the top spot with 7 points more than the second-placed team, Atletico Madrid. In addition, Barcelona reached the round of 16 of the Champions League with an unbeaten record, they won 4 draws and 2.
In terms of recent form, Barcelona is in a series of quite sublime matches. They have won 6 consecutive matches since January. Furthermore, in the last 15 matches, Barcelona have only lost 2 matches.
However, Barcelona has a very poor away record. In the away qualifying matches, Barcelona have not won in the last 5 matches.
On the other side of the front line, Lyon are on an impressive winning streak. In the last 7 matches, they have won 6. Notably, there was a resounding victory over PSG. That victory will give the Rhone lions a lot of confidence in hosting Barcelona this time.
Lyon of coach Bruno Genesio has a very impressive record in the Champions League. They were unbeaten in the group stage, notably winning 2-1 at Man City's Etihad Stadium and holding the reigning Premier League champions to a draw at home. Unfortunately, captain Fekir will not be able to play for Lyon in this match due to a suspended sentence.
Barcelona are of course rated higher than the home team. However, Lyon are not an easy team to bully at home. The match promises to be exciting and balanced.
Expected lineup:
Lyon (4-3-3): Lopes, Dubois, Marcelo, Morel, Mendy, NDombele, Tousart, Aouar, Traore, Dembele, Depay
Barcelona (4-3-3): Stegen, Roberto, Pique, Lenglet, Alba, Rakitic, Busquets, Vidal, Messi, Suarez, Dembele
Score prediction: 1-2
