Barcelona are set to return to Champions League action next week as they take on Slavia Prague on Wednesday.
Currently in 15th spot, it is a must-win game for the Catalans as they look to maintain their outside chance of finishing in the top eight with two back-to-back wins.
Slavia Prague, with just three points in six matches, are one of the worst-performing teams in the Champions League this season. And to make things worse, they will be heading into this game on the back of no professional action in well over a month.
Slavia Prague’s lack of football action ahead of Barcelona tie
As reported by Diario SPORT, Slavia Prague has not played an official match since December 13 – over a month ago.
The reason lies in the Czech First League’s winter break, implemented to avoid the extreme cold common in Central Europe during this period.
Hansi Flick, Barcelona manager
Slavia Prague’s inaction will be a huge boost for Barcelona. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
While they lead their domestic league by seven points, their last competitive outing was a 4-3 victory over Jablonec.
Since then, they have relied solely on three friendlies (a loss to Basel, a draw with Karlsruhe, and a win over Brann) to maintain fitness.
Despite their lack of rhythm and poor European form, this fixture is not without its dangers. The conditions will be hostile, with temperatures expected to drop to around -5ºC during the match.
Slavia’s hopes of reaching the playoffs are slim, requiring them to win their final two games. This is Barcelona’s game to lose.
Facing a rusted opponent offers Barcelona a golden opportunity to claim three vital points, provided they don’t underestimate the freezing conditions or the Czech side’s desperation.