Disciplinary tension has reached a peak ahead of the Champions League quarter-final first leg at the Spotify Camp Nou
As many as 11 players between Barcelona and Atlético Madrid are walking the suspension tightrope ahead of the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final, where a yellow card in Wednesday’s game would rule them out of the return clash.
Under UEFA regulations, yellow cards only reset after the quarter-final stage, meaning a single caution tonight would trigger an automatic one-match ban for the following week’s decider in the Spanish capital.
Atlético Madrid face the most severe defensive threat, with Diego Simeone managing a list of seven players on the brink. The Rojiblanco backline is particularly vulnerable, as centre-backs Marc Pubill, Clément Lenglet, and Robin Le Normand are all a single card away from a ban.
They are joined by left-back Matteo Ruggeri and the versatile Marcos Llorente. In attack, the risk is equally high, as Giuliano Simeone and Thiago Almada are also on the warning list.
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Lamine Yamal suspension worry for Barcelona
Barcelona have fewer suspension concerns than Atletico. However, one of theirs is Lamine Yamal, who they cannot afford to lose in the second leg, particularly with Raphinha injured.
Another key player who could miss out in Madrid if he were to be booked is Fermín López, who plays an important role in Hansi Flick’s high press of the opposition backline.
Defender Gerard Martín, who has converted to centre-back this season, will have to be careful against Atlético’s counter-attack, with Los Rojiblancos eager to exploit Barcelona’s high defensive line.
Marc Casadó completes the list of potential suspensions, who is no stranger to bookings. However, the midfielder’s minutes have been limited this campaign and is not expected to start the match.
This fixture rarely disappoints in terms of pace and intensity, making a hotbed for cynical fouls and potential bookings. While the main concern for both managers will be the scoreline, the players walking a suspension tightrope will create a curious sub-plot.
