PSG and Barcelona Put Unbeaten Runs on the Line in Champions League Clash
Paris Saint-Germain will face Barcelona at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday at 20:00 BST, with the Champions League Matchday 3 contest set to pit two of Europe’s most in-form sides against each other.
Key takeaways
- PSG have gone 12 European matches without defeat as reigning continental champions.
- Barcelona arrive on an 11-match winning run in all competitions, scoring 48 times.
- Pedri believes possession will shape the outcome of the match.
- Vitinha has dismissed any suggestion PSG are intimidated by Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal.
- Barcelona are seeking their first clean sheet in Europe for 17 matches.
Midfield battle expected to decide the tie
Both teams favour high pressing, rapid circulation and aggressive attacking football, putting the focus firmly on the central areas in Paris.
Barcelona’s Pedri identified control of the ball as the major factor in the contest. He also highlighted the importance of Rodri’s role at the base of midfield, saying the holding player brings organisation and defensive security that allows him to make more forward runs.
Pedri reserved particular praise for PSG’s Vitinha, describing the Portugal international as one of the game’s leading players when it comes to building attacks and retaining possession.
Vitinha, meanwhile, expects the tactical picture to shift during the game. PSG may need to defend deeper at certain moments and press higher at others, he said, with openings likely to emerge as the match develops.
PSG respect Barcelona threat
Vitinha acknowledged Yamal’s quality but insisted PSG have no fear of the Barcelona forward. He called the teenager one of the world’s best players at present, while stressing that Barcelona’s danger does not rest on one individual.
The PSG midfielder also praised Barcelona’s midfield and said he enjoys the way the Spanish side play.
PSG will look to maintain their unbeaten run at home, while Barcelona attempt to halt their long European sequence without a shutout. With both attacks in strong scoring form, Tuesday’s meeting offers an early measure of Champions League strength.
