UCL Returns as Two European giants, PSG and Real Madrid take each other on

The UEFA Champions League is back in action with an epic round of 16 battle as Real Madrid take on Paris Saint Germain. The game will take place in Le Parc des Princes as PSG welcomes Madrid in the first leg of the Round of 16.

The match is of huge gravitas as both teams will try their best to move to further rounds of the UEFA Champions League. The round of 16 will be a two-legged match with the first match at PSG’s home and the second match at the Santiago Bernabeu.

As it stands, Italian referee, Daniele Orsato will be in charge of the match. He’s an experienced referee who is trained for such an occasion.

Both teams have a few injuries in their squad. Real Madrid is missing their captain and star striker, Karim Benzema who picked up a knock in their Copa Del Rey defeat against Athletic Bilbao. Their young LB, Ferland Mendy is also out injured. The good thing for Madristas is that both these players are en route to recovery and might be able to return.

In PSG’s case, both Neymar and Sergio Ramos will miss the match. Both of these players have been ruled out of the 22-man squad which was released today by Mauricio Pochentinno. This is a big concern for the team.

What does it mean for both teams to win?

Both teams have struggled to perform well in the UEFA Champions League in the past years. PSG is still looking for their first trophy whereas Madrid is trying to assert their dominance again. For both teams to achieve their goal, they have to perform well in this match.

Performing well in the first leg makes the job easier. Thus both teams will give it they’re all. It will be a battle of tactics between the two renowned managers, Mauricio Pochenttino and Carlo Ancelotti. Real Madrid and PSG matches have always produced classics and even this time, fans will not be disappointed.

Current Form

Real Madrid has faced a difficult form in recent games. With their early exit in the Copa Del Rey and drawing against Villarreal, Madrid is struggling. They wish to turn their fortunes around by getting a win against PSG.

Real Madrid’s last five matches: D W L D W

PSG has been winning their games but isn’t able to impress critics with their game style. Having world-renowned players like Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, PSG is unable to show their squad value and win big matches.

PSG’s last five matches: W W L W W

The “Mbappe” decider?

In Mbappe’s recent interview, he clearly pointed out that his future depends on the PSG vs Madrid fixture. Mbappe’s future has been a discussing point this season as both PSG and Madrid are fighting for him.

All of PSG’s contract extension pleas have been declined by Mbappe. As he runs out of contract in the 2022-23 summer transfer window, Madrid will get him for free.

But, in his recent success at PSG, Mbappe feels that his future will depend on the upcoming round of 16 fixtures. If PSG wins, Mbappe might consider staying and extending his contract.

Where to watch?

The match will begin at 1:30 AM (IST) on February 16, 2022. Football fans all around the world can follow the stream links mentioned below to watch this exciting fixture.