How to beat Barcelona

At the Nou Camp: I'd simply just go for a draw or 1-0 defeat at most.
Cech,
Ivanovic, Luiz, Terry, A.Cole,
Essien, Mikel, Lampard, Ramires,
Mata,
Torres.

At Home:
Cech,
Ivanovic, D.Luiz, Terry, A.Cole,
Essien, Lampard,
Ramires, Torres, Mata,
Drogba.

The only problem is you have Drogba playing in the hole. I just dont think a 33 year old Drogba can handle that much tracking back, but from a counter attack perspective it has potential.
I just feel you guys would need Daniel Sturridge there somewhere. His pace would be menacing, But probably not against Alves, who normal has most left wingers in his pocket.
Id drop one of the holding players and play 433, go for it and have Sturridge on the right, to cut in and general cause havoc.

Sturridge wouldn't track back enough

I think that's the problem

Essien is well and truly past it now

I'd go

Cech
Branna Luiz Terry Cole
Ramires Romeu () Lampard
Torres Drogba Mata

Just because Torres can work hard and provided Torres is playing well in the build-up

But tbh I don't even like that lineup so much myself

Thats probably a fair point on Sturridge. But there comes a time when all players have to step up. If Sturridge doesnt up his game, especially tracking back against a Barcelona in a semi-final, you almost have to re-assess his future. I mean, I would take the risk, and just hope is has the mental capacity to realise what the game means.
Id actually start Mikel ahead of Essien too, I think Essien has about 45 minutes in him max. Its a shame, Essien was such a beast. Perhaps he isnt 28/29 after all

He's so slow now after those injuries
His stamina is gone
And not really as strong
Plus his passing isn't good

As you said, it's a great shame considering how good he was 4 years ago

Hello Mr.Capello

Against Barcelona:

Cech
Ivanovic Cahill Terry Cole
Luiz Romeu
Ramires Mata Kalou
*Torres


*Provided he's still in form by the time we face Barcelona.
Let's hope Luiz doesn't pick up a yellow or he misses the 1st leg.

Bench: Hilario,Drogba,Sturridge,Mikel,Lampard,Essien,Bertrand

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Please think about getting past benfica first

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