Inter Milan v Barcelona - Match preview

20 April 2010 10:48
Inter Milan and Barcelona meet for the third time this season at the San Siro tonight, with Pep Guardiola's side undefeated in the last two encounters.

A goalless draw in Italy was followed by a comfortable 2-0 win for the Catalan side at Camp Nou, but Mourinho is adamant his team are a far stronger proposition than they were in the group stages.

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"In the game in Barcelona they showed great superiority, winning easily," the Portuguese said.

"But a lot of time has passed since then. They are as good as they were in November, but we are much better now."

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Jose Mourinho looks set to pack his midfield in an attempt to combat Barcelona's considerable attacking threat, with Brazilian full-back Maicon pushed further up the field.

Barca fans suffered a few moments of panic yesterday when superstar Lionel Messi sat out training, but this was merely precautionary. Messi will start tonight.

There is no such luck for Andres Iniesta, however, who remains on the sidelines after aggravating a previous calf injury in training.

Meanwhile, Barca coach Guardiola has maintained he will not abandon his attacking philosophy in the wake of the formidable Italian champions.

"We want to show that we are coming here to play our usual game and score as many goals as we can," he said.

Barcelona are looking to become the first team to retain the Champions League since AC Milan managed the feat in 1990.

Source: DSG