Nobody would have ever imagined that Barca's travel to Russia would turn out to be this significant in terms of Barca proceeding to the group stage. A lose against Rubin tomorrow night will reduce Barca's chances of proceeding to next stage very much. A draw might not be bad, but may result in Barca seeking help from others in the group for qualification. Hence the ideal and only option left for Barca is to win this match. This is the most important match for Barca since the start of this season. After the dissappointing show against Osasuna Barca would be looking to bounce back in style. The omens are not good as the last tiome Barca drew in La Liga they followed up with a loss against Rubin. But this team last season has shown enough character to pick up from dire-strait situation and win matches. There will be no way Barca players are going to be complacent for this match. Guardiola has announced teh squad for Russia - Valdés, Alves, Piqué, Márquez, Puyol, Xavi, Iniesta, Ibrahimovic, Messi, Bojan, Pinto, Henry, Keita, Sergio Busquets, Pedro, Maxwell, Abidal, Touré and Jeffren. Dani Alves has returned back from injury but may not start the game.Guardiola is expected to start Valdes at the goal. Alves may only start on the bench, that means Puyol will once again done the right back role. Pique and Marquez should form the centre of defense with Abidal on the left. The midfield will surely contain Toure and Xavi with most probably Keita. That means Iniesta will start on the front left with Ibrahmovic and Messi occupying their usual position. The match most probably will be determined at the midfield. Keita and Toure has to be strong enough to win challenges and close down any spaces. But the match may depend on the form of Iniesta. He has struggled against the big organised defense at times and we will not be doing great without his performing. I dearly want Barca to win this game. But there were reports that it could be pretty cold in Kazan and clubbed with an organised defense, it could be really difficult to beat Rubin at home. So I will go for a goal-less draw.
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