Barcelona face Inter Milan in the Champions League group stage on Wednesday night at Camp Nou.

Both sides are coming into this fixture after victories over the weekend, while the Catalans will have to make do without Lionel Messi.

Here’s a look at the key tactics in this encounter:

COUTINHO TO STEP UP

Messi is irreplaceable. That much is certain. But Barcelona must make do without him and Philippe Coutinho may be the man to step up.

The Brazilian has forged a good understanding with former Liverpool team-mate Luis Suarez and that partnership needs to take centre-stage.

With Messi unavailable, Barca have lost their chief playmaker so Coutinho will have to take command. He should drift in from the left flank, linking up with Arthur and Suarez to create chances while Jordi Alba bombs down the outside to generate width.

Ousmane Dembele will provide pace on the right in Messi’s absence and Coutinho will look to find him with lofted passes in behind.

INTER EYES BARCA’S DEFENCE

Much of Barcelona’s disappointing form has been down to their poor defence. With their full-backs pushing forward, the centre-backs need to be on their toes in the transition but their positioning has often left them exposed this season.

Gerard Pique has been particularly vulnerable when forwards have run off the back of him. The Catalan has lacked awareness and doesn’t have the injured Samuel Umtiti to cover for him, either.

Inter striker Mauro Icardi is notorious for his clever moment and clinical finishing, making him the ideal candidate take advantage.

Borja Valero should start in Radja Nainngolan’s absence and will look to release Icardi quickly in the transition. Ivan Perisic will be key with his excellent delivery as well and in the Inter striker, he has a great target to aim for.