Barcelona travel to Benfica on Wednesday in what is expected to be a very tough first leg in the Champions League round of 16.

The two clubs have already faced off in the UCL League Phase and the Blaugrana came away narrow victors thanks to a last-minute goal in injury time from Raphinha.

Hansi Flick will be hoping to avoid a repeat of the 5-4 basketball-style game and his reported midfield suggests he wants a lot more defensive stability in the side. 

Barcelona midfield revealed

Alfredo Martinez, via Managing Barca, has reported that Flick will start with a midfield trio of Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Dani Olmo against Benfica.

Whilst Fermin Lopez and Gavi have both been great this season, Olmo provides a much more physical presence who can track back and help out in midfield. 

Hopefully, Barcelona have learnt from the previous game how not to play against Benfica and make this match a smoother ride.

Ideally, Flick and his players can finish the game in Portugal, but the Blaugrana must not underestimate Benfica as they have players who can change the game at the drop of a hat.