March 2024 is upon us and two major challenges await that could define the rest of the season for the blaugranes, basically to remain in the Champions League and to ramp up the pressure in LaLiga. We take a look at the five games this month, three at home and two very demanding away trips (all times CET).
1. San Mamés visit as a measure of recent progress (03/03 – 9.00pm)
The first game sees Barça visit the San Mamés stadium where the blaugranes will want to avenge the Copa del Rey defeat on 24 January against Athletic Club. Ernesto Valverde’s side are Copa finalists, and will prove a stern test for a Barça side who have won 13 out of a possible 15 points in their last five games.
2. The other Copa finalist, at home on a Friday (08/03 – 9.00pm)
From one finalist to another in Real Mallorca. The second game of the month sees the Balearic Islands side visit Estadi Olímpìc Lluís Companys in good spirits after qualifying for the final. This game will be played on a Friday and will be a chance for another three points for Barça after they frustratingly drew 2-2 in the away fixture.
3. Champions League quarterfinals at stake (12/03 – 9.00pm)
Mid-month sees the Champions League return and the home leg of the last 16 tie against Napoli. The first leg was a one all draw away and Xavi Hernández’ side will have to win against Osimhen, Kvaratskhelia and company to become one of the best eight sides in Europe, with the quarterfinals to be played in April.
4. Another high stakes battle, this time in LaLiga (17/03 – 9.00pm)
Just five days later sees a trip to Madrid for another high intensity game against Atlético Madrid, who are in the hunt to secure a place in the top four. They will be looking to get their revenge on the blaugranes after Barça won 1-0 courtesy of a goal by João Félix who is on loan from the Madrid side.
5. Month ends with a game steeped in Barça DNA (30/03 – 9.00pm)
After the international break, Barça’s final game is against Las Palmas. The Canary Islanders have played some lovely football this season and feature not only former blaugrana coach, Francesc Xavier García Pimienta in charge, but also former players from the Club such as Sandro Ramírez, Mika Mármol, Marc Cardona and Munir el Haddadi.
