What to Expect in the Women’s Champions League Final: FC Barcelona vs. VfL Wolfsburg

The Champions League has always been the premier club competition in the world. The best of the best from Europe spend the entire season chasing that elusive Champions League trophy, the prize money, and the title of being the best team on the continent. Two of Europe’s biggest teams, FC Barcelona and VfL Wolfsburg, square off in the biggest game of the year. Let’s preview the UEFA Women’s Champions League Final. 

FC Barcelona vs. VfL Wolfsburg

FC Barcelona to Solidify a Legacy

Barcelona are on a torrid run not just this season, but their dominance over the last four years is historic. This team has been dubbed one of the best of all time, and while that can’t be disputed talent-wise, they have just one Champions League title in those four seasons. The team that’s gotten in their way is Lyon, who were knocked out in the quarterfinals.

Winning this trophy would solidify Barcelona’s dominance as the best team in the world. It would only add to the legacy of great players like Alexia Putellas, Jenni Hermoso, and others. 

A Strong VfL Wolfsburg Team

Standing in their way is a team that’s actually won more Champions League trophies. Wolfsburg is the best team from Germany, who won this competition back-to-back in 2013 and 2014.

At least half of Germany’s national team is on this roster. Lena Oberdorf and Alexandra Popp are two of many elite players this team has. This game will not be easy for Barcelona by any means. In three previous meetings in the UCL, Wolfsburg won the first two in 2013-2014 and 2019-2020, but most recently, Barcelona did beat them in the semifinals last year. 

Tactics and Players

Whether it’s club competition or national team competition, all of these top-tier players have seen each other before, which will only add to the event.

The key to this game will be how well Wolfsburg can press Barcelona and take them out of their style where they want to possess the ball. Wolfsburg is a strong counter-attacking side that can strike in an instant, which means Barcelona must be careful when in possession. Tactically, Barcelona knows what they want to do, but will they have the players they need at full strength to do it? 

Caroline Graham Hansen, Asisat Oshoala, and Lucy Bronze all have nagging injuries. So, they might not be 100% going into the game. Alexia Putellas should be involved. Although, it hasn’t been long since her return.

Another concern that could be why Barcelona hasn’t gotten it done in the big game is they are too good for Liga F. There’s no one that plays a style like Wolfsburg in Liga F or has as much talent as they do. So sometimes, it’s hard to ramp up and be ready for a team that’s close to the same level as they are.

Lyon has also denied Wolfsburg in three different Women’s Champions League finals, 2016, 2018, and 2020. This holy grail of a trophy has eluded Wolfsburg just as much as Barcelona in recent years. Both teams will be eager to get over the line and win it this time. Expect fireworks with some of the best football you’ll see anywhere in the world. You won’t want to miss this UEFA Women’s Champions League Final. 

Saturday, June 3rd, 10:00 AM ET/7:00 AM PT, DAZN on Youtube   

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