'I take it as a given that Milan will score' - Barcelona's Guardiola ahead of Champions League clash at Camp Nou

03-Apr-2012 12:45:00 AM

Although the first leg at the Giuseppe Meazza last Wednesday produced no goals, the Catalans' coach is envisaging a far more open encounter this time around

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola believes that the Blaugrana will have to score at least twice in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash with AC Milan on Tuesday night because he does not foresee his side keeping a clean sheet.

The two teams drew 0-0 at San Siro last week in the first leg but the former Spain international is anticipating goals in their return meeting at Camp Nou.

"I take it as a given that Milan will score against us,” Guardiola admitted during his pre-game press conference on Monday.

“That's why we need to be very sharp on the attack and make the most of the chances we create.

"It will be a tough game. Milan are strong at the back and their counterattack is a concern, with [Zlatan] Ibrahimovic and [Kevin-Prince] Boateng.

"We have to play at a high tempo, with intensity and to the best of our abilities."

It emerged on Monday morning that influential Blaugrana midfielder Xavi was a major doubt for the visit of the Rossoneri because of a muscular problem but, according to Guardiola, the World Cup winner is in contention to start.

"He's been named to the squad; that means he could play," the 41-year-old coach stated.

"Xavi's got some fitness problems, but I am optimistic and I think the problem will not prevent him from playing.

"He will definitely play if he is fit but if not then someone else will take his place."

Barca's second-leg showdown with Milan gets underway at 20.45CET.

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