Barcelona defender a doubt for Osasuna clash after fresh knock against Benfica | OneFootball

Barcelona had to produce one of their best defensive performances this season to seek out a narrow 1-0 win over Benfica last night.

It was a fantastic defensive shift from the Blaugrana, who were down 10-men after 22nd minute, when Pau Cubarsi picked up a straight red card.

Cubarsi’s red card meant that other Barcelona defenders had to put in a real shift to retain the clean sheet. This didn’t bode all too well for Alejandro Balde, who picked up a knock during the proceedings.

Balde a doubt for Osasuna clash

According to Javi Miguel, Balde suffered a heavy blow to the ankle yesterday, which may impact his availability in the upcoming clash against CA Osasuna.

Indeed, the Spanish journalist confirms that Balde will be a doubt for Barcelona for the Osasuna, mainly on account of fatigue.

Balde suffered a knock to his ankle against Benfica (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

This implies that the Spanish defender may only be suffering from discomfort rather than any tangible injury.

Therefore, the worst case scenario for Barcelona will be Balde’s potential absence in the next league game against Osasuna.

To that end, Javi Miguel further confirms that Balde is expected to be fit to play the second leg Round of 16 clash against SL Benfica.

This could turn out to be a blessing in disguise for Barcelona, as it means that the defender will have a good week’s rest before taking on Benfica once again.

In the meantime, Hansi Flick can always count on the services of Gerard Martin in the upcoming league clash against Osasuna.

The young left-back performed brilliantly in the last game against Real Sociedad and there’s no reason why he can’t continue his form against Osasuna this weekend.