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Rubin out to cast spell over Barca again

The Russians, who lie third in Group D one point behind second-placed Copenhagen, have an outside chance of advancing to the knockout round.

To do so they need to beat Barca, who have already secured the top spot, while hoping bottom side Panathinaikos avoid defeat in Denmark.

"We have nothing left but to beat Barca in our last match," Rubin captain Christian Noboa said following a 1-0 home win over Copenhagen two weeks ago, their first victory in the group that kept alive their slim hopes.

"We managed to do it last year so we could do it again this time," added the Ecuador international.

Saturday's 3-0 victory away at Osasuna in the league came after an impromptu 350 kms dash by train and bus because of an air traffic controllers' strike, but they still prevailed despite arriving at the stadium just minutes before kick-off.

"I ask the fans that they don't desert us because this year we are going to need them more than ever," Guardiola said after the Osasuna game.