We don't have confirmed lineups or formations from the brief, but we can paint a likely picture. Celta, under their usual setup, tend to favour a 4-4-2 or a 4-1-4-1, looking to stay compact and hit on the break. They'll likely sit in a mid-block at Balaídos, hoping to frustrate Barcelona and nick something from a set-piece or a quick transition. But that's a dangerous game against a side that thrives on possession and patience. Barcelona's expected shape — probably a 4-3-3 — will dominate the ball, with their full-backs pushing high and their wingers cutting inside onto their stronger feet.

The midfield battle is where this will be won. Celta's double pivot will be stretched by Barcelona's rotations, and if they can't cope with the movement between the lines, they'll be chasing shadows. Barcelona's midfielders love to drift into the half-spaces, and Celta's narrow shape could leave gaps out wide. The full-backs will be key — if they tuck in too much, Barcelona's wide players will have the freedom to cross or shoot; if they push out, the central corridors open up. It's a classic trap.

Set-pieces could be Celta's best hope. They're physical, they have aerial presence, and Barcelona have been vulnerable to dead-ball situations in recent seasons. But relying on that against a team of this quality is a low-percentage strategy. The likely game state is Barcelona dominating possession, Celta defending deep, and the away side eventually finding a way through — whether it's a moment of individual brilliance or a well-worked move.