Manchester City's hopes of Champions League glory are hanging by a thread after their 2-0 first-leg defeat to Barcelona at the Etihad Stadium.

Their chances of scoring two goals without reply at the Nou Camp are pretty slim, although there's no reason why they can't score at three goals anyway. That said, Barcelona have been a shadow of their former selves in recent weeks, which means this could be one of the ties of the tournament when the teams meet on Wednesday night.

And here's three reasons why Barcelona and City could whip up something of a goal fest at the Nou Camp...

1. Onus on City

City need to score if they have any chance of pulling the shock. Having gone down 2-0 in the first leg, they will need to at least match that score if they are to force over time. The return of Sergio Aguero will come as a massive boost for City, as the they have lacked the cutting edge at time during his absence. City will need all the firepower they can get to defeat the Catalans. City will also take heart from Barca's recent league defeat to Valladolid. Barca looked sluggish defensively and lacked incision offensively, so city will surely look to attack with pace and power.

2. Less than sturdy defences

Both sides suffer from less than sturdy backlines, and prove vulnerable to lapses in concentration. Martin Demichelis proved his susceptibility to accidents, when his ill advised challenged on Lionel Messi saw him sent off and award a penalty to Barca. Barca themselves has suffered from defensive frailty, lacking a true center back partner to Gerard Pique. Valladolid opened the Barca defense on numerous occasions, so the match will be sure to entertain.

3. Quality up front

Despite the glaring defensive woes, Barca still possess firepower up front capable of beating anyone. Messi has been as frightening as always since his return from injury, and with a supporting cast of Pedro, Alexis, and Neymar, Barca will look to pile the pressure on City. With Iniesta, Fabregas, and Xavi pulling the strings in midfield, Barca will look to possess and frustrate City.

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