Barcelona and Napoli face off at the Camp Nou on Tuesday night for the second leg of their Round of 16 tie in the Champions League. The first leg in Naples ended in a 1-1 draw, with talismanic strikers Robert Lewandowski and Victor Osimhen trading blows. Both teams are in decent form, and with everything to play for, this match could be a goal-fest.
Barcelona head into the second leg at home with renewed optimism. Xavi’s announcement that he will leave at season’s end hasn’t dampened the team’s spirits. In fact, it has significantly boosted team morale. The Blaugrana have remained undefeated since the news broke and will aim to extend that streak on Tuesday.
However, they face a significant challenge with the absence of key midfielders Pedri and Frankie De Jong. This will necessitate a tactical shift, with İlkay Gündoğan expected to adopt a more deep-lying playmaker role in build-up rather than being the supplier in the final third. His playmaking abilities will be crucial, but the change could disrupt their usual rhythm, leading to a less controlled performance from the Blaugrana and plenty of opportunities on the break for the visitors.
Napoli on the Rise Under Calzona
Similarly, Napoli have enjoyed a manager-related surge, finding a new rhythm under Francesco Calzona, their third manager this season. Sticking to a familiar 4-3-3 formation, the team has seen a notable improvement in performances, going unbeaten in their last four matches with a commendable +4.2 expected goal difference (xGD).
Their ability to dominate possession, maintaining it over 60% in recent games, speaks volumes of their growing confidence and tactical discipline. With Barcelona’s midfield weakened, Napoli’s control and success in transitions could be the key to unlocking the Catalan defence.
Betting Tip
12/03 21:00 Barcelona – Napoli Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.68 (Konfambet)
Despite Barcelona’s home advantage, both teams come into this match with momentum. Barcelona’s midfield rejig due to injuries could open space for Napoli’s counter-attacks. Additionally, both sides possess potent attacking threats in Lewandowski and Osimhen.
Both teams will want to win and go all out for the victory, setting the stage for an open game with lots of scoring opportunities.
Therefore, we believe this match will have over 2.5 goals, and you can back that option at boosted odds of 1.68 on Konfanbet.
Why You Should Bet on Over 2.5 Goals:
- Striker Showdown: The first leg highlighted the prowess of two striking talents, with Lewandowski and Osimhen finding the net. Their clinical finishing, coupled with the attacking philosophy of both teams, suggests another goal-rich encounter.
- Midfield Dynamics: Barcelona’s midfield absences could lead to a more open game. Napoli’s ability to control the midfield and exploit spaces during transitions may result in a higher-scoring affair.
- Formidable Form: Both teams have been on an unbeaten run, with Napoli’s impressive xGD indicating their attacking threat. Barcelona, despite their injuries, have the depth and talent to contribute to the scoreline.
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