Barça women face Madrid CFF test before Arsenal showdown

Barça women host Madrid CFF at 4 p.m. on Sunday, with two objectives: test themselves before their Champions League showdown with Arsenal and try to reclaim the Liga F Moeve lead. Third in the league, Madrid CFF present a demanding challenge just days before the Arsenal match, scheduled for 6:45 p.m. on Thursday at Spotify Camp Nou.

The fixture comes after an unexpected defeat to Real Sociedad (2-1). Barça have since bounced back with three convincing wins, against Granada (3-0), Koge (0-8) and Badalona Women (0-4). The Catalans therefore arrive with their momentum restored, but top spot is also at stake: Real Madrid moved provisionally into first place the previous day, beating Athletic Club 1-0 with an 85th-minute goal from Eva Navarro.

Pere Romeu described Madrid CFF as a team that has significantly changed its squad since last season while keeping the same coach. “They are a very aggressive team without the ball, like to press high and move forward,” the coach said. He also noted that his opponents are third in the standings and stressed the importance of producing a strong performance at home.

Barça will have to manage several absences. Irene Paredes, Vicky López, Kika Nazareth and Laia Aleixandri will not be available for this match. Romeu said Vicky López and Irene Paredes could rejoin the group soon; if their progress goes well, they could be available for the Champions League match against Arsenal. He added that the timing of their return was still uncertain. Clara Serrajordi is available, despite feeling discomfort in the previous match against Badalona.

Sunday’s game is also part of the build-up to the European meeting, which Barça are eager to use as a chance for revenge. In 2025, the Catalans lost 1-0 to Arsenal in the Champions League final in Lisbon. Before turning their attention to that fixture, however, the team must first seek three points in the league. Romeu could distribute playing time, a possibility presented as a way to approach the European match in good condition.