Tue Oct 21 16:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Barcelona Looks to Rebound Against Struggling Olympiacos in Champions League Clash

Barcelona, Spain – FC Barcelona aims to bounce back from a recent dip in form as they host Olympiacos in a crucial Champions League match this evening. Kickoff is set for 6:45 PM local time (CET).

After a strong start to the season, the Catalan giants have stumbled, suffering defeats against Paris Saint-Germain and Sevilla. However, a narrow victory against Girona in La Liga provided a much-needed confidence boost. The return of key players Yamal and Fermin Lopez after the international break further strengthens the squad. Ferran Torres is also available after missing the Girona game, but Raphinha, Joan Garcia, Christensen, and Lewandowski are sidelined due to injuries.

Barcelona head coach has named the following starting XI: Szczesny – Koundé, Cubarsi, Garcia, Baldé – Casado, Pedri – Yamal, Fernandez, Lopez – Rashford

Olympiacos, on the other hand, are struggling to find their footing in Europe. They were held to a draw by Pafos, despite the opposition playing a man down for much of the match, and then suffered a defeat to Arsenal. They currently sit outside the playoff spots and desperately need a positive result to revitalize their campaign. Historical form isn’t on their side as well, as they’ve never won in Spain in European competition (2 draws, 14 losses).

Their confirmed lineup is: Tzolakis – Costinha, Retsos, Pirola, Ortega – Hezze, Garcia – Martins, Chiquinho, Podence – El Kaabi

This will be only the third meeting between the two clubs in all competitions. In their previous encounters in the 2017/18 Champions League group stage, Barcelona won at home (3-1) and drew in Greece (0-0).

After being surprised at home by a weakened PSG (1-2), Barcelona sees this match as an opportunity to right the ship and solidify their position within the top 8. Meanwhile, Olympiacos will need to produce an inspired performance to overcome their current struggles and secure a valuable point, if not a historic victory, on Spanish soil.

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