Barcelona vs Liverpool: Three key battles that could decide the Champions League semi-final

Player ratings: Liverpool vs Huddersfield

Rakitic vs Fabinho

Liverpool’s midfield was clearly the weakest component of Jurgen Klopp’s team last season, and the club made a concerted effort to strengthen the squad in that area over the summer, with the signings of Fabinho and Naby Keita.

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Liverpool’s midfield has indeed looked noticeably better this season, as the above additions have added quality and depth, but Liverpool’s midfield mettle will truly be tested against Barcelona, who will expect Rakitic to pull the strings at the Nou Camp. Fabinho is likely to re-enter the Liverpool line-up and it will be crucial for the Brazilian to cut off Rakitic’s supply of passes to Messi and Luis Suarez.

If Fabinho can do that, the next step is to provide Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane with possession as quickly as possible. Bypassing Barca’s midfield by looking out wide is a better option for Fabinho than trying to play through the likes of Rakitic and Sergio Busquets.

Semedo vs Mane

Mane’s greatest attribute is his blistering pace, but Semedo is no slouch. If anyone can keep up with Liverpool’s Senegalese winger, it is Barcelona’s Portuguese right-back.

Semedo will be wary of Mane’s runs but should also be able to match them, and the 25-year-old will be supported defensively by Barca veteran Gerard Pique, who is having one of the best seasons of his career.

With Roberto Firmino’s inclusion in the Liverpool squad still in doubt, due to the Brazilian forward’s ankle injury, it is vital that Mane steps up for Klopp’s team. The 27-year-old has frequently demonstrated his ability to score in the biggest games for Liverpool, but he will need to be absolutely clinical at the Nou Camp.

Should Divock Origi or Daniel Sturridge start in Firmino’s place, they will need to help Mane by occupying Pique and allowing the Senegal international opportunities to cut inside and test Semedo’s defensive nous, rather than just his pace.

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