UCL: Barcelona expect ‘intense game’ against Juventus

Barcelona coach, Ernest Valverde has said his side are expecting an “intense and important game” against Juventus in their UEFA Champions League opener on Tuesday.

The Spanish giants will face the Serie A champions at Camp Nou to begin their continental campaign hoping for a better ending, as they were knocked out 3-0 on aggregate by Juve in last season’s quarter-finals.

Speaking at the press conference ahead of the game, Valverde admitted that Juventus are a great team but they’ll try to play with high enthusiasm.

“Last year they caused us a lot of problems so we need to be careful. I’m expecting an intense and important game between two top sides and with a precious result at stake.

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“It will be a very important game, but that’s also true of the league games we’ve played. We’re starting the Champions League with competitive enthusiasm.

Barcelona are drawn in group D, which also includes Olympiakos of Greece and Sporting CP of Portugal. And Valverde would not disrespect any of the teams as his side will take all games seriously.

He added: “We have to respect every team in this group, and the important thing tomorrow is to get the three points and start our Champions League campaign with a win.

“We’ll have to keep an eye on Dybala and all the great Juventus players. Dybala is an important player for Juventus and one of the best in the world.”

 

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