Barcelona vs Olympiacos Prediction, Odds, Lineups & Betting Tips (21/10/2025) – UCL

Our Prediction for Barcelona vs Olympiacos (21/10/2025)

Barcelona are overwhelming favourites to secure a commanding victory when they host Olympiacos at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on Tuesday evening. Despite a lengthy injury list affecting several key attacking players, the Catalan giants possess sufficient quality to dominate their Greek opponents. Hansi Flick’s side have shown impressive firepower under his guidance, and even without Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, they retain attacking options capable of breaking down Olympiacos’ defence.

Our Barcelona vs Olympiacos score prediction: Barcelona 3-0 Olympiacos

Recommended betting market: Barcelona to win & Over 2.5 Goals at 1.35 offers solid value. The home side’s attacking prowess combined with Olympiacos’ defensive struggles in recent matches make this an attractive proposition for punters seeking Barcelona vs Olympiacos betting tips.

The reasoning behind this Barcelona vs Olympiacos match preview centres on form, squad depth, and home advantage. Barcelona’s tactical setup under Flick emphasises high pressing and vertical attacking play, which should overwhelm the visitors. Olympiacos arrive in Barcelona following a concerning run of results, including defeats to Arsenal and domestic rivals PAOK. Their defensive record against top opposition suggests they’ll struggle to contain Barcelona’s attacking threat, even with the Catalans missing several first-choice forwards.

Barcelona Form Analysis

Barcelona have demonstrated attacking excellence under Hansi Flick this season, despite recent setbacks. The German tactician has transformed their approach, implementing a more direct style whilst maintaining their traditional passing principles. Their Champions League campaign began with a hard-fought 1-2 victory away to Newcastle United on 18 September, showcasing their ability to grind out results on difficult away trips. However, they suffered a disappointing 1-2 home defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on 1 October, exposing some defensive vulnerabilities.

Goal-scoring form remains Barcelona’s greatest strength. Robert Lewandowski continues to lead the line with authority, supported by emerging talents and summer signing Marcus Rashford. The Polish striker has maintained his clinical edge in front of goal, whilst Pedri’s creativity from deeper positions has been instrumental in unlocking defences. Barcelona’s attacking statistics under Flick are impressive, with the team consistently creating high-quality chances through their quick transitions and intelligent movement.

Defensive record presents more concern, particularly with Marc-Andre ter Stegen sidelined through injury. Joan Garcia’s absence compounds their goalkeeping issues, forcing Flick to rely on backup options. The high defensive line that characterises Flick’s system – successfully employed to catch opponents offside – can be vulnerable to pacey counter-attacks when execution falters.

Key players for this Barcelona vs Olympiacos lineup include Lewandowski, whose experience in European competition is invaluable, and Pedri, whose passing range can unlock any defence. Jules Koundé and Pau Cubarsí form a solid central defensive partnership, crucial given the injury crisis affecting other areas. With Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha all unavailable, Flick must rely on squad rotation and tactical flexibility.

Hansi Flick’s tactical setup employs a 4-2-3-1 formation that transitions fluidly during matches. The German emphasises aggressive pressing, quick ball recovery, and vertical progression. His teams maintain possession intelligently but aren’t afraid to bypass midfield with direct passing when opportunities arise. The high defensive line compresses space, allowing Barcelona to dominate territorial possession whilst creating immediate pressing triggers when losing the ball.

Last 5 Results:

• 06/10/2025: Sevilla 4-1 Barcelona (LaLiga) – L
• 01/10/2025: Barcelona 1-2 PSG (UCL) – L
• 28/09/2025: Barcelona 3-0 Getafe (LaLiga) – W
• 22/09/2025: Barcelona 2-1 Athletic Bilbao (LaLiga) – W
• 18/09/2025: Newcastle United 1-2 Barcelona (UCL) – W

Olympiacos Form Analysis

Olympiacos’ Champions League return has proven challenging thus far. The Greek champions earned automatic league phase qualification following their impressive 2023-24 Europa Conference League triumph, but they’ve struggled to impose themselves against Europe’s elite. Their campaign opened with a goalless draw against Cypriot side Pafos on 17 September – a disappointing result that highlighted their attacking limitations. José Luis Mendilibar’s side then travelled to Arsenal and suffered a comprehensive 2-0 defeat on 1 October, despite showing glimpses of defensive organisation.

Goal-scoring form has been problematic for Olympiacos. Their attacking output in European competition has been minimal, managing just one goal in their opening two Champions League fixtures. Ayoub El Kaabi, their Moroccan striker who was instrumental in their Conference League success, has struggled to replicate that form at the higher level. The absence of creative midfielder Gabriel Strefezza through injury has limited their ability to supply quality service to the forwards.

Defensive record shows vulnerability against top-tier opposition. Whilst they kept a clean sheet against Pafos, the Arsenal defeat exposed their defensive frailties when facing relentless pressing and superior technical quality. The loss of experienced defender Rodinei to injury has weakened their right defensive flank, forcing Mendilibar to reshuffle his backline. In their Greek Super League fixture on 6 October, they conceded twice in a 2-1 defeat to PAOK, continuing their concerning defensive trend.

Key players for Olympiacos include El Kaabi up front, despite his recent struggles, and midfield general Daniel Podence, who provides their primary creative threat. Lorenzo Pirola has been solid in central defence, but he’ll face an enormous challenge containing Barcelona’s attacking movement. The injury to Panagiotis Retsos removes another defensive option at a crucial time.

José Luis Mendilibar’s tactical approach typically employs a compact 4-4-2 or 4-5-1 formation designed to frustrate opponents through organisation and counter-attacking opportunities. The Spanish coach prefers defensive solidity, instructing his team to sit deep, protect central areas, and look for transitions. This pragmatic approach served Olympiacos well domestically and in their Conference League triumph, but it faces a stern examination against Barcelona’s superior technical quality and relentless pressing.

Away form has been particularly concerning for Olympiacos against elite opponents. Their defeat at Arsenal demonstrated the gulf in class when facing Premier League opposition, and Barcelona present an equally formidable challenge. Historical results against Spanish giants have rarely favoured Greek clubs, and Olympiacos’ current injury situation and poor form suggest this pattern will continue.

Last 5 Results:

• 06/10/2025: PAOK 2-1 Olympiacos (Greek League) – L
• 01/10/2025: Arsenal 2-0 Olympiacos (UCL) – L
• 28/09/2025: Olympiacos 2-0 Athens Kallithea (Greek League) – W
• 22/09/2025: Asteras Tripolis 1-2 Olympiacos (Greek League) – W
• 17/09/2025: Olympiacos 0-0 Pafos (UCL) – D

Barcelona vs Olympiacos Betting Odds

The Barcelona vs Olympiacos odds heavily favour the Catalan giants, reflecting the significant quality gap between these sides. Barcelona’s superiority is evident across all major betting markets, with bookmakers pricing Olympiacos’ chances of causing an upset at extremely long odds.

Market
Barcelona to Win	1.15	1.15	1.15
Draw	7.50	7.50	8.00
Olympiacos to Win	13.00	13.00	15.00
Over 2.5 Goals	1.35	1.35	1.36
Both Teams to Score	2.05	2.05	2.00

Correct Score Selections: Popular correct score predictions for this Barcelona vs Olympiacos betting market include 3-0 Barcelona, 2-0 Barcelona, and 3-1 Barcelona, with 3-0 typically offering the best value amongst likely outcomes.

These Barcelona vs Olympiacos betting odds reflect Barcelona’s overwhelming favouritism. The home win is heavily backed, though the odds of 1.15 offer minimal value for standalone bets. More attractive propositions include combining Barcelona’s victory with goal markets. The Over 2.5 Goals market at 1.35 provides reasonable returns whilst maintaining strong probability, given Barcelona’s attacking capabilities and Olympiacos’ defensive struggles.

Punters examining the Barcelona vs Olympiacos standings will note that Barcelona currently sit 16th in the 36-team league phase table with three points from two matches, whilst Olympiacos occupy 29th position with just one point. Both sides need victories to improve their qualification prospects, though Barcelona’s superior squad quality makes them far more likely to secure the required points across their eight league phase fixtures.

Important Notice: All odds are subject to change and were accurate at time of publication. Always verify current prices with your chosen bookmaker before placing wagers.

Where to Watch Barcelona vs Olympiacos

UK football fans can catch this Champions League clash across multiple platforms.

Location: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona, Spain

Date: Tuesday, 21 October 2025

Kick-off: 18:45 BST (16:45 UTC)

TV Channel: TNT Sports (UK), with coverage also available via their streaming platform Discovery+. Check your local TNT Sports listings for exact broadcast details and pre-match coverage times.

Probable Lineups for Barcelona vs Olympiacos

Both managers face selection challenges ahead of this crucial Champions League encounter. Barcelona’s extensive injury list forces Hansi Flick into several changes from his preferred starting eleven, whilst Olympiacos must cope without key defensive personnel.

Barcelona Lineup (4-2-3-1)

Starting XI:

• GK: Iñaki Peña
• RB: Jules Koundé
• CB: Pau Cubarsí
• CB: Ronald Araujp
• LB: Alejandro Balde
• CDM: Marc Casadó
• CDM: Frenkie de Jong
• RAM: Marcus Rashford
• CAM: Pedri
• LAM: Roony Bardghji
• ST: Ferran Torres

Injured/Suspended: Dani Olmo (injury), Fermin Lopez (injury), Joan Garcia (injury), Lamine Yamal (injury), Marc-Andre ter Stegen (injury), Raphinha (injury)

Coach: Hansi Flick

Barcelona’s probable lineup reflects their injury crisis, particularly in attacking areas. Flick will likely deploy Rashford in a wider role, with Pedri operating as the primary creative force behind Ferran Torres. Marc Casadó and Frenkie de Jong should provide the defensive midfield balance, whilst Pau Cubarsí continues his impressive development alongside the experienced Araujo. Iñaki Peña deputises in goal for the injured ter Stegen.

Olympiacos Lineup (4-4-2)

Starting XI:

• GK: Alexandros Paschalakis
• RB: Costinha
• CB: Lorenzo Pirola
• CB: David Carmo
• LB: Francisco Ortega
• RM: Chiquinho
• CM: Santiago Hezze
• CM: Christos Mouzakitis
• LM: Daniel Podence
• ST: Ayoub El Kaabi
• ST: Gelson Martins

Injured/Suspended: Gabriel Strefezza (injury), Panagiotis Retsos (injury), Rodinei (injury)

Coach: José Luis Mendilibar

Olympiacos will adopt a defensive 4-4-2 shape designed to frustrate Barcelona’s attacking movements. Mendilibar typically instructs his wide midfielders to track back diligently, creating a compact defensive block. El Kaabi and Martins will operate as a strike partnership, tasked with holding up possession and exploiting any counter-attacking opportunities. The absence of Strefezza removes creative impetus from midfield, placing greater responsibility on Podence to provide quality in transition.

The Last Encounters Between Barcelona and Olympiacos (Barcelona vs Olympiacos H2H)

Historical encounters between these clubs are limited but favour Barcelona significantly. The teams last met during the 2017-18 Champions League group stage, with Barcelona emerging victorious overall despite being held to a draw in Greece.

Date	Venue	Competition	Result
31/10/2017	Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium (Piraeus)	Champions League Group Stage	Olympiacos 0–0 Barcelona
18/10/2017	Camp Nou (Barcelona)	Champions League Group Stage	Barcelona 3–1 Olympiacos

The home fixture in October 2017 saw Barcelona dominate despite playing with ten men for the entire second half following Gerard Piqué’s dismissal. Lionel Messi scored his 100th European goal in that match, whilst Dimitris Nikolaou inadvertently scored at both ends. Lucas Digne added Barcelona’s third before Nikolaou’s late consolation for the visitors. The match showcased Barcelona’s superiority even when numerically disadvantaged.

The away encounter two weeks later proved far more frustrating for the Catalans. Despite controlling 70% possession and registering 19 shots to Olympiacos’ six, Barcelona couldn’t find a breakthrough. The Greek side defended resolutely, with goalkeeper Silvio Proto making several crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet. This stalemate represented a rare setback in Barcelona’s otherwise dominant Champions League campaign that season.

Notable Statistics from Previous Meetings:

• Barcelona averaged 70% possession across both fixtures
• Barcelona registered 44 total shots compared to Olympiacos’ 9
• Olympiacos managed just 1 shot on target across 180 minutes
• Barcelona won 20 corners compared to Olympiacos’ 7
• Only one of two matches featured over 2.5 goals

These historical encounters suggest Barcelona’s dominance, though Olympiacos demonstrated they could frustrate the Catalan giants through defensive organisation. However, the current Barcelona squad under Hansi Flick employs a more direct attacking approach than the 2017-18 vintage, potentially making them better equipped to break down deep-lying defences. Olympiacos’ recent defensive struggles against top opposition suggest they’ll find it harder to replicate their 2017 defensive resilience.

The Barcelona vs Olympiacos H2H record strongly indicates another home victory for the Catalans. With superior quality throughout their squad, home advantage, and tactical evolution under Flick, Barcelona should have sufficient firepower to overwhelm their Greek opponents despite the injury crisis affecting key attackers. Olympiacos’ lack of goals against elite opposition in both historical meetings and recent fixtures suggests they’ll struggle to threaten Barcelona’s goal significantly.