Paris Saint Germain vs Chelsea

PSG and Chelsea meet at the Parc des Princes for the first leg of their round of 16 clash in the UEFA Champions League. Paris Saint-Germain enter the contest as the defending champions after their historic triumph last season. PSG reached the round of 16 after finishing 11th in the league phase before overcoming AS Monaco 5–4 on aggregate in the knockout phase play-offs. Historically, the meetings between PSG and Chelsea have been closely contested. The clubs have faced each other eight times in the Champions League, with PSG winning three matches and Chelsea claiming two victories. Their most recent encounters came in the 2015/16 round of 16 when PSG secured 2–1 wins, both home and away, to progress comfortably. In addition, PSG have enjoyed strong results against English clubs in recent seasons. They have lost only one of their last eight matches against Premier League opposition and remain unbeaten in their last five. Earlier this season they defeated Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Super Cup and also recorded a high-scoring win over the same opponents in the Champions League group stage. PSG have been extremely consistent in Europe, reaching the Champions League knockout rounds in 14 consecutive seasons. They have also won their last five knockout ties and have lost only two of their last 14 European matches. Sticking one foot into the next round remains the ultimate objective for Les Parisiens. A 4—3—3 formation with Désiré Douéa, Bradley Barcola and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in attack may be seen against Chelsea.

Chelsea, meanwhile, qualified directly for the round of 16 after finishing sixth in the league phase. The London club returns to the knockout rounds of the Champions League for the first time in three seasons. Fortunately, they have an excellent record against French teams. The Blues have won their last six matches against Ligue 1 opponents, including victories over LOSC Lille during the 2021/22 Champions League round of 16. In addition, the London side have won 13 of their last 16 two-legged European ties and have progressed from their last three Champions League round-of-16 appearances – a remarkable record the Blues remain keen to extend. With PSG seeking to defend their European crown and Chelsea eager to re-establish themselves among Europe’s elite, the first leg in Paris could prove decisive in what promises to be a thrilling Champions League showdown. A 4—2—3—1 formation with João Pedro in attack is expected against PSG.