Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are set to face Eredivisie champions PSV Eindhoven in a crucial Champions League clash at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday night.
After a mixed start to their European campaign, Luis Enrique’s side will be determined to get back to winning ways and solidify their position in the group.
Despite their dominance in Ligue 1, PSG were humbled by Arsenal in their last European outing, highlighting some vulnerabilities in the team.
PSV, on the other hand, have been perfect in the Dutch Eredivisie but are still seeking their first win in this year’s Champions League.
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PSG’s Champions League Ambitions and Domestic Form
Paris Saint-Germain’s start to the Champions League campaign has been a mixed bag. They managed to edge past Girona in their first match, securing a crucial three points.
However, their 4-2 defeat at Arsenal exposed some of their weaknesses, particularly in the absence of Kylian Mbappe. Without their talisman, PSG struggled to deal with the physicality and intensity of the Premier League side.
Domestically, PSG have continued to show promise. Their recent 4-2 victory over Strasbourg in Ligue 1 showcased their attacking prowess, with the likes of Ousmane Dembele and Marco Asensio stepping up.
However, Paris will need to translate that domestic form into European success if they are to make a deep run in the Champions League this season.
Currently leading the Ligue 1 standings, they remain one of the top contenders for silverware, but their journey in Europe has been anything but straightforward.
With Kylian Mbappe’s fitness still in question and injuries to key players such as Randal Kolo Muani, Presnel Kimpembe, and Goncalo Ramos, Luis Enrique will need to carefully manage his squad. Despite these setbacks, PSG have enough quality to put on a strong performance against PSV Eindhoven.
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PSV Eindhoven’s European Struggles
While PSV have been flawless in the Eredivisie, winning all nine of their domestic matches so far, their form in the Champions League has been less convincing.
A draw and a defeat in their opening two group-stage games have left them with just a point, and they will be desperate to kick-start their European campaign with a win in Paris.
PSV coach Peter Bosz has instilled a high-energy, attacking style of football that has served them well in the Dutch league.
However, replicating that success on the European stage has proven difficult. The loss of key midfielders Joey Veerman and Jerdy Schouten to injuries is a significant blow, and PSV will need other players to step up in their absence.
The likes of Malik Tillman and Ibrahim Sangaré will be crucial for PSV in the middle of the park, while veteran striker Luuk de Jong will be looking to add to his tally in the Champions League. Hirving Lozano, who has been a livewire for PSV, is also expected to play a key role in breaking down PSG’s defense.
Predicted Lineups
PSG Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):
Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Vitinha, Fabian, Neves; Dembele, Asensio, Barcola.
Luis Enrique is likely to field a strong lineup as PSG look to get back on track in Europe. Ousmane Dembele and Marco Asensio will lead the attack in the absence of Mbappe, while Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes are expected to provide width from the full-back positions. In midfield, Vitinha and Manuel Ugarte will be tasked with controlling the tempo of the game.
PSV Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):
Benitez; Karsdorp, Flamingo, Boscagli, Junior; Saibari, Tillman, Til; Bakayoko, De Jong, Lang.
With several key injuries, PSV will likely rely on a similar lineup to the one that faced Genoa at the weekend. Luuk de Jong will be the focal point of their attack, supported by Noa Lang and Johan Bakayoko. In midfield, Malik Tillman will take on an important role in the absence of Schouten, while Ricardo Rodríguez and Jordan Teze will need to be solid defensively.
Tactical Battle: PSG’s Fluid Attack vs PSV’s High Energy
The tactical battle between PSG and PSV will be fascinating to watch. PSG are expected to dominate possession and play a fluid, attacking game, utilizing the pace and creativity of Dembele and Asensio to break down PSV’s defense. The return of Marquinhos and Hakimi will also bolster PSG’s defensive capabilities, allowing them to build from the back.
PSV, on the other hand, will look to press high and disrupt PSG’s build-up play. Peter Bosz’s side is known for their high-energy approach, and they will need to be aggressive if they are to challenge the French giants. However, PSV’s defense has shown signs of vulnerability, and they will need to be disciplined if they hope to keep PSG at bay.
Key Players to Watch
Ousmane Dembele (PSG):
Dembele’s pace and dribbling ability make him a constant threat down the wings. With Mbappe likely to miss the game, Dembele will be PSG’s primary creative outlet, and he’ll be looking to make an impact in the final third.
Luuk de Jong (PSV):
De Jong’s experience and aerial presence will be key for PSV. The Dutch striker is a proven goal-scorer and will need to take advantage of any chances that come his way if PSV are to get a result in Paris.
Score Prediction: PSG 2-1 PSV Eindhoven
PSG’s defeat against Arsenal highlighted some of the team’s flaws, but they remain a force to be reckoned with, particularly at home. While PSV will be aggressive and look to challenge PSG physically, the French side’s technical superiority should shine through. With Dembele and Asensio leading the charge, PSG are likely to have too much firepower for PSV to handle.
PSV’s lack of a statement European win under Bosz and their defensive frailties suggest that they could struggle in Paris. However, their attacking potential means they could still cause problems for PSG’s defense.
Jambobet Prediction: PSG 2-1 PSV Eindhoven
