Paris Saint-Germain have been drawn against Barcelona in the Champions League quarterfinals, having already played each other in the group stages this season. When they met in Paris a few months back, the hosts emerged 3-2 winners, though they lost 3-1 away in Barcelona. As those earlier matches suggest, this should be a very close tie between two teams who will no doubt consider themselves to be serious contenders to lift the trophy in Berlin in June.
Paris Saint-Germain vs. Barcelona, Champions League draw: Group stage rivals meet again
PSG and Barcelona will meet again in the Champions League quarterfinals, having already faced off earlier in the tournament.
PSG may be one of the wealthiest teams in the world, but up until this season they’d never really looked like genuine Champions League contenders. Now, though, after eliminating Chelsea with just 10 men in the round of 16, they’re looking as strong as ever -- despite being engaged in a tight three-way battle at the head of their domestic division. Barça, meanwhile, are sat top of the La Liga table, and boast the most dangerous strike force in world football. Everyone knows quite how good they can be when on form.
Key matchup: Barcelona's attack vs. PSG's defence
With their front three of Neymar, Luis Suárez and Lionel Messi, facing Barcelona is a terrying prospect for any defence. PSG's, which hasn't always looked watertight in Ligue 1 this season, will have to be at their very best if they're to stand any chance of keeping their sheet clean. If they do so, there's every chance they'll make it into the semifinals; Barcelona are much better going forward than they are at the back.
One to watch: Lionel Messi
It’s an obvious choice, but when you’ve got one of the greatest players of all time in the pitch, they’re probably going to be worth keeping an eye on. Lionel Messi is capable of winning matches single-handedly, and don’t be surprised if he ends up doing so in this clash.
Prediction
PSG are looking better than ever in Europe, even if it has been a slightly rocky season domestically. Still, they continue to lack the individual quality of Barça, and because of that, the Catalans just about get our vote -- though don’t expect a walkover.
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