Bate vs. Barcelona: Complete Preview, Start Time and Schedule

Barcelona heads to Belarus to face of against FC BATE in their second contest in Champions League Group play. 

This will be a stirring match considering the amount of talent that will be sidelined by both squads. Barcelona will be without one of their key creators in Andres Iniesta. The back line will be suspect with Pique doubtful to play as his hamstring injury lingers. 

After drawing with AC Milan in the group opener, the Catalans will no doubt be looking for a full three points despite playing away. 

A team of Barcelona's pedigree cannot continue sharing in the spoils. Without Vitali Rodionov, it will be hard for BATE to strike a blow against the Spanish giants. 

Let's take a closer look at what should be an exciting match. 

Where: Horodskiy Stadium

Watch: FSC 5:00 p.m. EDT

When: Wednesday, September 28th, 2:45 p.m. EDT

Betting Line (courtesy Bodog.eu): Barcelona -2 

Key Injuries

  FC BATE: Forward Vitali Rodionov OUT (knee)

Barcelona: MF Ibrahim Afella OUT (knee), Andres Iniesta OUT (leg), Girard Pique DOUBTFUL (hamstring) 

Biggest Storyline

 Barcelona have been hit or miss in their recent fixtures. They allowed a quick goal to AC Milan that would end up being crucial in an eventual tie. 

The back line cannot afford any hiccups as this should be a match that yields maximum points. Anything less would be a disappointment.  

FC BATE Player to Watch

With injuries along the BATE attack, the load of scoring will be on Serbian striker Mateja Kežman. He has the experience to weather what will be a spirited Barcelona defense.  

Barcelona Player to Watch

There is a multitude of stars of which to take note. Newly acquired Cesc Fabregas will need to step up in a larger role with Iniesta out. 

But the real joy will be watching magician Lionel Messi with the ball.  

What They're Saying

Sports Illustrated report on the frustrations of the back line ahead of this weekend's La Liga match with Atletico Madrid:

"Barcelona's disjointed defense will have to find a way to stop Radamel Falcao when Atletico Madrid visits the Camp Nou on Saturday, while Real Madrid will be looking to recover from its worst league run under Jose Mourinho against Rayo Vallecano." 

Prediction

Barcelona 3, BATE 1