Italy

Figo: Barcelona-Inter Will Be A Game Of Opposites

The Portuguese star is not expecting a goalfest, suggesting that the Nerazzurri will simply shut their opponents down and hit on the counter.

Nov 24, 2009 6:47:00 AM

Champions League: Luis Figo in Moscow - Inter

Luis Figo believes that Barcelona are finding out the hard way how difficult it is to be the kings of Europe and thinks that Inter will close up the game when they visit Camp Nou.

The former Blaugrana favourite will return to the stadium that he once called home, before stunning fans by joining Real Madrid in 2000, in his role as an ambassador for the Italian club.

While Pep Guardiola will not change his attacking philosophy, Figo thinks that Jose Mourinho will ensure that the hosts are not allowed the time and space they need.

"I do not think Barca will change their style of play," he was quoted as saying by Sport.

"It will be a duel between two completely opposing football philosophies and one thing I am sure of is that it will not be an open game.

"When a team has a successful system that has been in place for a long time it makes everything a lot easier."

Barcelona have won just once in the group stage of the competition only a year after winning plaudits around the world for their performances last term.

"After winning the Champions League everything becomes more difficult," he continued.

"The other teams raise their game and are all very familiar with how you play."

Lucas Brown, Goal.com

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