Yahoo Sports Casparij relishing Barcelona showpiece
Kerstin Casparij says the feeling of playing in iconic venues such as Barcelona’s Olympic Stadium never gets old.
City lock horns with the European champions on Wednesday with kick-off set for 17:45 (UK) in our final UEFA Women’s Champions League Group D assignment.
The Blues currently sit top of the group with a 100% record and can secure first position should we avoid defeat or lose by one goal.
It promises to be a thrilling encounter, and at a fitting location, according to the Dutch international.
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“I’ve played a good few venues so far and it’s special every time,” she said.
“I don’t think you ever get tired of it, if it’s your first or your 15th.
“We’re very excited to be playing here tomorrow.”
WATCH: Highlights: City 2-0 Barcelona
Our clash with Barcelona is our final fixture before the festive break, which will see City in action four times in the space of ten days.
The Blues go into the tie with several notable absentees, with Alex Greenwood and Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw the latest additions to a lengthy injury list.
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Indeed, five of City’s starting XI who beat Barcelona in October have been ruled out with injury since that 2-0 victory at the Joie Stadium.
For Casparij, the festive period has come at a good time for players to rest and recovery ahead of the new year, but equally breaks up the team’s momentum after a cluster of matches.
WATCH: Watch: Women's open training before Barcelona trip
Asked if the extended rest period had come at a good time for the squad, she added: “I’d say yes and no.
“Yes, in a way we have quite a few injuries which will allow the fit players to have a break and others to come back in January.
“On the other side we’re in a good flow and playing regularly.”
Barcelona v City app coverage
The Official Man City App will provide comprehensive coverage of our trip to Barcelona.
Minute-by-minute text updates will begin in our Matchday Centre 90 minutes before kick-off. During the game you can also listen to live audio commentary while our text commentary continues.
Make sure you have push notification turned on as well, so you can be alerted to key moments in the action including goals, red cards and team news.
Highlights and a CITY+ full-match replay will be available at 23:00 (UK) on Wednesday night in the United Kingdom only before being made available the following day.
