The Daily Star Ireland
FC Barcelona bounced back strongly from an opening-day 2-1 loss to Monaco by winning their next three matches in impressive fashion. They dominated Young Boys of Bern 5-0, triumphed over Bayern Munich 4-1, and crushed Red Star Belgrade 5-2. These performances have put them in a commanding position to qualify for the round of 16, and the team is determined to keep their momentum going and finish top of their group.
In La Liga, Barcelona is still in first place despite a 1-0 defeat to Real Sociedad, which ended a seven-match winning streak across all competitions. Under Hansi Flick, the team maintains a six-point lead over second-place Real Madrid as they prepare for their match against Celta Vigo on Saturday.
Stade Brestois has exceeded expectations in the Champions League, with three wins and one draw from their first four games, putting them in fourth place with 10 points. If they hold on to this position, they will advance to the round of 16. Domestically, Brest sits in 12th place, a far cry from their impressive form last season but still steady. They will travel to Monaco on Friday, hoping to snap a two-match losing streak.
Barcelona will continue without their top goalkeeper, Marc-André ter Stegen, who is sidelined for several months. Peña is expected to start in goal unless experienced keeper Szczesny is called upon. Additionally, defender Ronald Araújo is out until December, and Christensen and young midfielder Bernal remain injured.
Barcelona has also been affected by injuries to several key players, including Yamal (6 goals, including one in the Champions League), Lewandowski (5 Champions League goals and 19 overall), Ferran Torres, and Ansu Fati. However, the team hopes to have Yamal and Lewandowski fit for this important European match.
Frenkie de Jong, who recently returned from injury, is still uncertain after being substituted early last week. Versatile player Eric Garcia is expected to play.
Brest will miss injured Locko and unregistered substitute Zogbé for the upcoming match. However, striker Sima, who has scored three goals in the Champions League, is expected to play after being absent in their recent win over Sparta Prague.
Del Castillo and Ajorque, who have scored three and two goals respectively in Ligue 1, have yet to find the net in Europe. Ajorque will be suspended for their next group match against PSV Eindhoven if he picks up a yellow card in this game.
Prediction
Barcelona has been dominant at home in the Champions League, winning 11 consecutive matches, including their last meeting with Brest. In contrast, Brest has struggled away from home, losing 11 of their last 18 away games. Barcelona is expected to pose a tough challenge for the visitors.
Prediction: Barcelona 3-1 Brest.
