Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the UEFA Women's Champions League match.
The reigning champions of the Women's Champions League will start with a trip to face Manchester City. The match in England will be a strong test for Barcelona, who have easily dispatched their opponents in the early stages of their domestic campaign.
Manchester City (women)
In the final round of European cup qualification, Manchester City showed no mercy against FC Paris (8:0 on aggregate), though they have faced defensive issues in the league. For instance, the team couldn't hold onto their lead against Arsenal, ending in a 2:2 draw away from home. In that match, their key defender Leila Ouahabi, who previously played for Barcelona before moving to England, sustained an injury. It seems she might take part in the Wednesday match, but the opposition will look to exploit her suboptimal physical condition.
Barcelona (women)
Barcelona capped off the previous Champions League campaign with a triumphant final win over Lyon (2:0), with key players Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas finding the net. Over the last month, the Catalan club has secured five consecutive victories, notably thrashing Granada (10:1) and Madrid CFF (8:1). It's likely that in the Champions League, the team will rely on their potent attack, disregarding any defensive lapses.
Manchester City (women) vs Barcelona (women) Prediction
At Manchester City's ground, Barcelona will ramp up the pace of the game to high levels— a challenge no women's team can withstand. Bet on a win for the Spanish club in England.
