On Wednesday, April 9, 2025, the spotlight will be on the Olímpic Lluís Companys as FC Barcelona welcome Borussia Dortmund for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final showdown. Scheduled for 20:00 local time, this clash brings together two football powerhouses with rich European histories, both looking to claim the upper hand in their pursuit of a semi-final berth.
Barcelona Overview
FC Barcelona enter this fixture riding a wave of momentum. With a dominant run in the new Champions League league phase, the Catalan side secured 19 points from six wins, a draw, and just one loss, finishing second out of 36 teams. Across all stages of the competition, they’ve racked up 32 goals while conceding only 13, establishing themselves as one of the tournament’s most complete teams.
Under manager Hans-Dieter Flick, Barcelona have found a balance between tactical discipline and attacking flair. The German tactician has implemented a pressing style that has reinvigorated the squad, bringing the best out of stars like Pedri, Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal. Their most recent 1-0 win away to Atlético Madrid further reinforced their ability to grind out results when it matters.
Barcelona have won all five of their last matches across competitions, showcasing their form and consistency. With home advantage and a sharp tactical identity, they head into this clash as strong favorites.
Dortmund Overview
Borussia Dortmund’s path to the quarter-finals has been one of persistence and attacking football. Despite finishing 10th in the group stage with 15 points, their offensive presence was undeniable, netting 22 goals. However, conceding 12 reveals areas where they may be vulnerable against elite opposition like Barcelona.
Their overall tournament form includes seven wins, one draw, and two defeats—a solid record by most standards. Inconsistencies, though, have crept into recent performances. With just two victories in their last five matches, the Black and Yellows will need to be near perfect in Catalonia.
Niko Kovač has instilled structure and purpose within Dortmund’s ranks. With players like Marco Reus, Karim Adeyemi, and Julian Brandt, Dortmund possess enough firepower to challenge Barcelona. Their 3-1 win over Mainz in their last domestic match may offer a timely confidence boost, but playing away at one of Europe’s toughest venues remains a steep task.
Head-to-Head and Match Insights
Barcelona have historically had the upper hand in this matchup. In the three most recent meetings, the Spanish side claimed two wins and a draw. The last time these teams met, Barcelona secured a 3-2 victory on Dortmund’s home ground—a result that will surely weigh on the minds of both camps.
Barcelona’s current form—five straight wins—contrasts with Dortmund’s mixed record of two wins, two losses, and one draw. This disparity, combined with the home crowd and tactical momentum, positions Barcelona as the frontrunners heading into the first leg.
Prediction
All factors considered, Barcelona are well-poised to take a solid lead into the return leg in Germany. Their scoring efficiency, defensive organization, and dominant recent displays make them difficult to bet against. Dortmund are capable of springing a surprise, especially with their counter-attacking threat, but they’ll need to be nearly flawless.
The likely scenario is a Barcelona win with both sides finding the net, as Dortmund’s attack remains a threat even when playing away.
Prediction: Barcelona 3:1 Borussia Dortmund