Barcelona are riding high after their Copa del Rey victory over Real Madrid on Saturday, which has given them a major confidence boost ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final clash with Inter Milan.
With their spirits lifted, the Blaugrana are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling encounter in the first leg at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys in Montjuic.
Despite their strong form, Barcelona are keeping a close eye on Inter Milan’s injury situation, as a key defender’s absence could play a significant role in the outcome.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan are not taking things lightly, as they’ve been dealing with their own injury concerns, particularly regarding one of their star forwards.
The build-up to the match has seen an intriguing development: Inter Milan will be without their influential defender, Benjamin Pavard, for the upcoming clash with Barcelona, as per Sky Sports Italy.
The 29-year-old Frenchman, who has been a regular in Inter’s defense this season, was forced off during the first half of their Serie A match against AS Roma on Sunday after suffering a sprained ankle.
This injury has ruled Benjamin Pavard out for the crucial Champions League semi-final tie, giving Barcelona an unexpected advantage.
The French international’s absence means that Inter will likely have to rely on Yann Bisseck to fill the void in defense, potentially weakening their backline.
While Pavard’s injury comes as a relief to Barcelona, there’s still the matter of facing a potent Inter Milan attack.
The Italian side is optimistic about having forward Marcus Thuram available after missing the last three matches due to a muscle injury.
Thuram has been training at higher intensity and could potentially play a key role in Inter’s offensive plans if he regains fitness in time.
Barcelona will quietly sense an opportunity ahead of a crucial night in Montjuic against Inter Milan.
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