Barcelona has raised concerns over the pitch at Stamford Bridge before their Round of 16 clash against Chelsea
Chelsea and Barcelona renew their continental rivalry as the Blues host the Spanish giants later tonight. The Barcelona team trained on Monday night. They were, however, left unimpressed by the state of the pitch. Mundo Deportivo stated that the Barca team had issues with the pitch and consequently raised their concerns in front of the ground officials. The Catalans do hope, though, that any issue of such sort will be resolved before the all-important kickoff.
Barcelona 'raise concerns over Stamford Bridge pitch' ahead of Champions League last-16 clash with Chelsea https://t.co/uRFFQzFzVd via @NewsNowUK
— Lynn Hamer (@evilbluebird) February 20, 2018
Notably, Chelsea has played two home games in the last 8 days. Hence, there is expected to be some sort of wear and tear on the pitch. On the other hand, Barcelona has been known to be very particular regarding the pitch having also made complaints on their previous visits to London.
Both teams go into the match virtually at full strength with no major injuries affecting either camp. Alvaro Morata is back fit for the Blues, however, David Luiz is expected to miss out. Phillipe Coutinho will the biggest miss for Blaugrana as the Brazilian is cup-tied owing to his previous appearances in the competition with Liverpool in the group stages.
FC Barcelona News: 20 February 2018; Players Train at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea Clash Approaches https://t.co/5AC0IJxJ9c pic.twitter.com/OfUTl8rnhJ
— Bostjan Cernensek (@bcernensek) February 20, 2018
Barcelona and Chelsea clash for the first time since the Blues triumphed over Barca on their way to maiden Champions League victory. The Catalans meanwhile ended their rivals’ Champions League story three years earlier which included ‘that’ infamous night at the Stamford Bridge.
Author’s Take
Stamford Bridge is among the best stadiums in England if not the entire world. The pitch conditions might be a little dodgy due to recent use but I’m sure the groundsmen will do their best to ensure that both the teams get fair opportunity to put up a brilliant game of football.
