Xavi's challenge: Win where Barcelona never have before
The Catalans have struggled at the Allianz Arena historically in the past
Barcelona face Bayern on December 8 and it’s a new challenge for Xavi Hernandez. The team needs to win where they never have in their history, in the Allianz Arena.
Barca have played five games there, starting with a 95-96 UEFA Cup clash (2-2). Then, four in the Champions League.
A 1-0 defeat in 98 in the group phase, a 1-1 draw in 2009 in the quarter finals, a 4-0 defeat in 2013 in the semi-finals, and a 3-2 defeat in the 2015 semi-finals.
The only non defeat was Pep Guardiola’s side drawing there in 2009, when they went on to win the treble.
The worst was the hammering under Tito Vilanova in 2013. Most recently was Luis Enrique’s side losing 3-2 there in the semi final second leg, but the 3-0 first leg win was enough to progress and they won the trophy.
Bayern are destroying Group E, top with 15 points from five games, ahead of Barcelona with seven points, Benfica with five and Dynamo with 1.
Barcelona need to match or better Benfica’s result in the last game week to qualify.
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