Gerard Pique of FC Barcelona celebrates after defeating Valencia at the end of the Copa del Rey Semi Final 2nd leg match between FC Barcelona and Valencia. Barcelona face Osasuna on February 11, 2012. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Barcelona are favorites to beat Osasuna, but this is no easy game.
For years, Osasuna have kept themselves in La Liga by squeaking out draws against superior opposition. They're not loaded with technical or physical talent and they don't have much of a budget, but they're excellent at thwarting good sides, especially at home. Getting a point off of FC Barcelona might seem like an impossible task, but it's something that they've done before.
Though Osasuna lost to Barca 3-0 at home last season, they did get a 1-1 draw at home against the Blaugranas just two seasons ago. This year, they have draws against Atletico Madrid, Sevilla, Valencia and Malaga, as well as wins over Espanyol, Levante and Villarreal. Barcelona are favorites to win without a doubt, but Osasuna are no pushovers. The odds of a draw are better than they might seem.
Barcelona are still without David Villa, but otherwise are able to field a full-strength side. Andres Iniesta has recently returned to full fitness, and he should get back into the starting XI over Thiago Alcantara. Cesc Fabregas could return to the front three or the bench, depending on whether Pep Guardiola prefers his style of play or Isaac Cuenca's for the opposition.
Osasuna vs. Barcelona
Game Date/Time: Saturday, February 11, 2:00 p.m. ET, 8:00 p.m. local
Venue: Estadio El Sadar, Osasuna, Spain
TV: GolTV (USA and Canada), Sky Sports 4 (UK)
For more on the Blaugranas, check out FC Barcelona blog Barca Blaugranes.
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