FC Barcelona is preparing for a new challenge in the UEFA Champions League. The blaugrana team will play a crucial match against Red Star Belgrade at the Rajko Mitic stadium in Belgrade.
This match represents an opportunity for Barça to maintain their good shape after a recent crushing victory.
A Barça on a Hot Streak
Those at FC Barcelona are clear favorites for this game. Their confidence has been boosted after beating Bayern Munich 4-0 in their last game.
This victory not only underlines the strength of the team but also proves Barça's offensive and defensive capabilities. Hansi Flick's lineup has found a good balance and the players are in excellent shape.
Red Star, a Rival to be Reckoned with
Red Star Belgrade, meanwhile, is currently at the top of its national championship. The Serbian club currently has an 11-point lead over its closest rival, Partizan, although with one more game played. This speaks to the good form of the home team, which is characterised by its defensive solidity and its attacking ability.
One of Red Star's standout players is Andrija Maksimovic, a young talent who is just 17 years old. Known in Belgrade as "Little Messi", Maksimovic has caught the attention of fans and pundits alike for his skills on the field. Despite his nickname, he and Lamine Yamal, who was also born in 2007, are contemporaries and are in the same generation of young prospects.
Andrija Maksimovic: the Young Prodigy
Maksimovic made his debut for Red Star's first team at the age of 16. Since then, he has made 12 appearances, scoring 2 goals and providing 4 assists.
His performance hasn't gone unnoticed, as he recently became the youngest player to make his debut for the Serbian national team. This happened in a UEFA Nations League match against Switzerland, where he showed his great potential. In addition, he's also had the opportunity to face Spain in a match in Córdoba.
This young player represents a real threat for Barça. His speed and ability to get past defenders make him a player to keep an eye on.
Barcelona defenders Pau Cubarsí and Alejandro Balde must keep a close eye on Maksimovic. His ability to create chances and score goals could make things difficult for the Catalonian team.