Barcelona's already hurting defense has taken another hit with Dani Alves sidelined for three weeks because of a pulled muscle in his left thigh. The Brazil right back left Sunday's 2-2 tie against Real Madrid in the first half and was replaced by Martin Montoya. Barcelona was already missing Carles Puyol, out until December with a dislocated elbow, while Eric Abidal is still recovering from a liver transplant. Defender Gerard Pique is expected to return soon from a sprained left foot. Barcelona is also without midfielder Thiago Alcantara because of a damaged ligament, while Andres Iniesta, Jordi Alba, Adriano and Alexis Sanchez have all missed games this season due to health problems. (For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports)