Prematch, Luis Enrique sprung somewhat of a tactical surprise as he sent the team out in a 3-4-3 formation rather than the standard 4-3-3. Javier Mascherano, Samuel Umtiti and Jordi Alba were the three central defenders but in contrast to what others do with the same formation, there were no wing backs. Instead, Enrique went for a four man midfield of Sergio Busquets, Ivan Rakitiu0107, Rafinha and Denis Suárez with Busquets dropping deep to complete the back four when Barça weren’t in possession.
The game started with the away side on top as Barcelona settled into the less than familiar formation.