Official: Barcelona's starting eleven against Bayern Munich | UCL

FC Barcelona finally meets FC Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League. The Catalan giants have been eagerly awaiting this encounter, as have their Bavarian opponents. Of all the duels Barcelona have played in this year's Champions League group stage, this is by far the biggest test.

However, if there was a Barcelona team in recent years that seemed strong enough to take on Bayern Munich's in-form side, it might as well be this one. Under the leadership of Hansi Flick, La Blaugrana go into this game more motivated than ever.

With the game about to begin, the Catalan giants have officially announced their starting XI for matchday three of the UEFA Champions League and as expected, it's a strong line-up that Flick has relied on.

As was confirmed some time ago, Hansi Flick opted for Inaki Pena's starting eleven in goal. The Spaniard continues to rely on the trust of his German coach and it seems as if he will be the one who will have to protect Barcelona's goal from Bayern Munich's offensive attack.

In front of him, the trusting partnership of Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez remains solid. They have been the most reliable defensive duo for Barcelona this season and their combined performances should give the team enough confidence in their abilities to make life difficult for Bayern.

Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde continue to play as starting full-backs on both wings. Although both the Frenchman and Spaniard will be expected to attack the wings of the German team, they will also have to be extremely vigilant about their defensive duties, knowing how difficult it can be to suppress Bayern.

The two defensive midfielders directly in front of them will be Pedri and Marc Casado. Both Spaniards are expected to start again for Barcelona after putting in confident performances together so far. However, both will have to be more careful than ever if they want to dominate Bayern's midfield.

Raphinha and Lamine Yamal will occupy both wing positions on the left and right wing respectively. They have been a hit in terms of both goals and assists this season and Hansi Flick will be counting on them to add to their tally against his former team. In between, Fermin Lopez is emerging as a surprise starter and his tenacity could be a great addition to this Barça attack.

Ultimately, Robert Lewandowski will act as the team's central attack point. The Polish star has been scoring goals for fun this season, but this is his opportunity to showcase his qualities against top opposition and a team he knows better than most.