La Liga champions FC Barcelona are set to face Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund later tonight in their first UEFA Champions League clash this season.

Out of all the games that Barca has played so far this season, their Tuesday night clash is undoubtedly the toughest duel yet for the Catalans. Argentine superstar Lionel Messi is yet to don the Barca jersey this season, given that he suffered an injury during the summer. Until now, the Barca brigade has been feeling his absence.

Barcelona fans are hoping to see Messi make a comeback in their Dortmund tie. However, after staying away from competitive football for more than six weeks, the Argentine might start from the bench if he plays at all. His colleague, Luis Suarez is also expected to return to the football pitch on Tuesday night.

Speaking of BVB, all eyes are on Paco Alcacer's performance. So far this season, Alcacer scored in every appearance he made for the Black and Yellow. The former Barcelona footballer who went to Dortmund on loan last season, will want to prove that the Barca management made a blunder by giving up on him too quickly.

Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi

Barcelona hasn't won a Champions League title in the last four years. Last season, they contended to reach the finals by beating Liverpool in their first leg semi-final, 3-0. However, their away game at Anfield ended in a humiliating loss. The Reds shattered their hopes by thrashing the Catalans 4-0.

This season, Barca's performance has been inconsistent. So far, Barcelona played 4 games and could only win 2 of those. Out of the remaining two games, they drew once and lost the other one. As we speak, FCB has 7 points to their name and currently trails 3 points behind the league leaders, Sevilla FC.

On the other hand, Dortmund has also played 4 games in the Bundesliga. They won 3 games and currently have 9 points to their name. The BVB brigade is second on the Bundesliga table, with just a point deficit from leaders RB Leipzig. According to CBS Sports, Dortmund will have the upper hand in their home game against the Spanish champions.

Barcelona FC Lionel Messi Luis suarez