Barcelona v Basel preview

Guardiola looking for 12th win in a row in all competitions

Last updated: 4th November 2008  

Barcelona v Basel preview

Guardiola: Taking nothing for granted

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Barcelona aim to continue their stunning form with a 12th successive victory against Basel in Group C.

The Spanish giants have been playing the best football in Europe in recent weeks, with Pep Guardiola's side scoring goals for fun.

In Switzerland a fortnight ago, Barca crushed Basel 5-0 and another three points on Tuesday could secure a spot in the UEFA Champions League knockout phase, if Shakhtar Donetsk do not beat Sporting Lisbon.

However, despite the ease with which his team have been winning games of late, Guardiola is not taking another victory for granted.

Danger

"The danger is that so many people seem to believe we've won it already," said Guardiola of the Basel game.

"Even I have praised the team, because their attitude, work and performances have all been pleasing. But it must not go to their heads."

Guardiola will be without Eric Abidal due to a knee injury, so Martin Caceres will start at left-back, while Seydou Keita and Gabriel Milito did not train on Monday.

Basel have lost all three of their group matches so far, but coach Christian Gross is not ruling out an upset at Camp Nou.

Gross said: "We knew before the first match how strong Barcelona have become.

"They are more of a unit than last season and they are obviously enjoying their football. But if we don't concede early goals and are clever in possession, we can do something magnificent at Camp Nou."

The visitors' only injury doubt is David Abraham as the defender is struggling with a stomach upset.