Barcelona’s European hopes are hanging by a fragile thread when they travel to the Vicente Calderon stadium in Madrid for the second leg of Champions League quarterfinal match against Atletico Madrid.

The side has responded well when faced with a do or die situation in this season. The recent win in the El Classico is a case in point. Can they do a similar trick at another stadium in Madrid? They have no other option after the 1-1 draw in the first leg at home.

Not many expected Atletico Madrid to hold their own against the traditional giants of Spanish soccer. But they have been doing just that. While the spotlight is always on Barca and Real, they accumulate points without any fuss. They lead Barca by a single point and Real by three points in the La Liga. They would want to extend their dream run to the Champions League too.

The problem for them is that it has been 10 games since they defeated Barca on a football field. The last four games ended in stalemate. If this is going to be a draw, they would prefer a goalless one. A 2-2 draw will see them crash out on away goal rule.

Barcelona will push forward to score an outright win. Their recent away form has not been great: two narrow wins and two losses in the last four journeys.

Diego Costa’s injury in the previous leg was a big blow to the team. He has not been declared fit so far. But their coach Diego Simeone could still risk him, as he can exploit the weaknesses in the Barca defence. If he does not play, it will be up to the former Barca man David Villa, Raúl García and Koke to provide ammunition.

Barca have no shortage of stars. Their fans would expect another Messi-Naymar show. The team seems to have come to terms with Victor Valdes’ absence. But the injury to Gerard Pique may hurt them.

Atletico Madrid-Barcelona Prediction

Barca have not appeared like the dominant team of the previous years. Their big game temperament makes them the favourites. Still, it will not be a surprise if they bow out of the Champions League.

Barcelona to qualify 1.66 @ Bet365

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