Barcelona will rest five first team regulars- but not Lionel Messi- for tomorrow’s match against Benfica.
Celtic and Benfica go into the final match level on points with Neil Lennon’s side needing to better Benfica’s result in the Nou Camp when they take on Spartak Moscow in Glasgow.
Javier Mascherano, Jordi Alba, Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas and Pedro Rodriguez will all been left out with B team players Sergi Gomez, Carles Planas, Sergi Roberto, Rafinha, Gerard Deulofeu and Cristian Tello included in the 18-man squad.
Messi however will lead the Barca attack with the incentive of knowing that two goals will take him past the world record mark of 85 scored by Gerd Muller in the calendar year 1972.
Asked about the Messi record Barca boss Tito Vilanova said: “Leo was rested last week against Alaves in the Copa del Rey.
“It’s not about records for goals – the main thing is to win. He is the same as always. He always wants to play and he is in his best habitat when he is playing.
“I’m excited that he plays, and for us it is always better.”
Vilanova added: “We will present a competitive team. It’s an important game because we represent the club. It’s the Champions League, and there are teams playing for qualification.
“There are players who are coming off injuries and this match will be perfect. It will be great motivation, for sure. Also, they are all professionals and always give their all.”
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Leo is best player ever we wish him all the best to break Gerd Muller record of 85goals for club and country in 1972.
Celtic MUST do the business on their own, no way we can / should be relying on others.
I’d ensure we play guys who are fully fit / sharp to keep the tempo high from the off and make sure it doesn’t drop…such as Brown can on for the last 30 mins or so if required.
At least 3 of they young guys r already quality players: deulofeu, sergi roberto and gomez r all good enough to cause benfica problems but im confident the bhoys’l do the job at parkhead, mon the hoops
Messi is awesome… Go Celtic and prove everyone wrong
This is our own fault that we find ourselves relying on another result beyond our own. We shous still be okay, but what a massive disappointment if we don’t make it through.
The abnormal defensive approach taken against Benfica twice is what put us here.
Whatever happens
I sure hope we learned that Celtic don’t sit back, not against anyone!
celtic bhoys will do the job they will be well up for it no worries