Two of Europe’s powerhouses will clash in the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday when Paris Saint-Germain host Bayern Munich.
It’s a battle of two of the pre-tournament favourites although the home side haven’t been playing like that. PSG have struggled with injuries and enter this one having lost two games in a row, with the pressure mounting as a result.
Bayern, on the other hand, have lost just once all season and have scored at least three goals in each of their last three games.
Both teams’ seasons hinge on success in this competition, and crashing out at this early stage is going to put significant pressure on whichever side does not come out on top.
Here’s all you need to know about this one.
PSG vs Bayern Munich H2H Results (Last Five Games)
Current Form (Last Five Games)
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PSG team news
Injuries have been a massive problem for PSG but there is hope that the majority of their problems could be ended in time for this one. Lionel Messi is expected back from a hamstring injury and he should be joined by midfielder Marco Verratti.
Kylian Mbappe had been ruled out for this one but was back in light training on Sunday, and local reports suggest he could make the matchday squad, although whether he’ll be a starter or even play at all is a different matter.
Renato Sanches and Nordi Mukiele are confirmed absentees, while Fabian Ruiz must overcome a stomach virus first.
(4-3-1-2): Donnarumma; Hakimi, Ramos, Marquinhos, Mendes; Verratti, Vitinha, Danilo; Neymar; Messi, Ekitike.
Bayern Munich team news
There are fears over Thomas Muller after he suffered a calf injury at the weekend. The German has claimed it is not a serious problem but this game may well come too soon for him.
Manuel Neuer, Sadio Mane, Lucas Hernandez, Ryan Gravenberch and Noussair Mazraoui remain out, but Joshua Kimmich will return from suspension.
(4-2-3-1): Sommer; Cancelo, De Ligt, Upamecano, Davies; Goretzka, Kimmich; Gnabry, Musiala, Sane; Choupo-Moting.
This game would be tough to predict even if both teams weren’t coming into it below 100%. Either could quite easily win the entire tournament.
Bayern have looked stronger in recent weeks but don’t underestimate the importance of PSG having both Messi and Neymar back available. If Mbappe can recover in time as well, that’s a return which could easily define a campaign.
Amid concerns that the Frenchman might not be available at all, Bayern will fancy their chances of taking advantage and snatching a narrow victory.
Prediction: PSG 1-2 Bayern Munich