Champions League: Barcelona VS Inter Milan preview, Head-to-head, lineup and prediction

After a massive summer spending spree, Barcelona has hit form this season and could be contenders for European football's ultimate prize, despite some defensive concerns.

Nonetheless, Robert Lewandowski has gotten off to a fast start, and Xavi Hernandez has excelled in the dugout.

This season, Inter have been experiencing a crisis of sorts. They are tenth in Serie A after losing the championship to city rivals AC Milan last season. They are, however, incredibly talented and equipped to punish Barcelona.

In the next eight days, the Blaugrana will begin a two-game series with Inter that will significantly impact their ability to qualify for the Champions League quarterfinals.

The loss to Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena made it imperative for Barcelona to earn at least three points from the two matches against the Italians to keep their hopes of advancing to the round of 16 alive heading into the final two group games. Four or even six points will put them in the driver's seat for second place.

In the Champions League head-to-head stats - six wins for Barcelona, three draws, and one win for Inter Milan.

Inter Milan predicted lineup

Lautaro Martinez is questionable owing to a minor injury, but he should be able to play against the Spanish team, while Andre Onana will start as a goalie.

With no. 1 Samir Handanovic, 38, receiving widespread criticism for his recent performances, Onana has an excellent opportunity to establish his claim as Inzaghi's first-choice goalkeeper.

Marcelo Brozovic is the critical player injured, and his absence will significantly impact Simeone Inzaghi's chances against Barcelona. The 29-year-old Croat may not be able to return until after the World Cup due to a hamstring injury he sustained while on international duty.

Inter Milan predicted lineup: Handanovic, Martinez, Dzeko, Skriniar, Acerbi, Bastoni, Dumfries, Barella, Asllani, Calhanoglu, and Dimarco.

Barcelona predicted lineup

Like his counterpart on the Inter bench, Xavi will be without several of his important players for the journey to Lombardy.

The Barcelona squad that will go to Italy does not include Ronald Araujo, Memphis Depay, Jules Kounde, Frenkie de Jong, or Hector Bellerin due to their continued absence due to injury.

Barcelona will employ their standard 4-3-3 formation but will make several personnel changes from their close victory over RCD Mallorca.

Barcelona predicted lineup: Ter Stegen, Dembele, Lewandowski, Raphinha, Roberto, Christensen, Garcia, Alba, Kessie, Busquets, and Pedri.

Barcelona vs Inter Milan Prediction

The present form and injuries of Inter have made this game far more intriguing. FC Barcelona is anticipated to win at San Siro despite Inter Milan's need for a victory to shift the course of their season.

Final prediction: Barcelona 2 - 1 Inter Milan