Paris Saint-Germain vs Porto preview

December 3, 2012
By: Nemanja Lazarevic

PSG desperately need to return to winning ways following two setbacks on domestic stage, and the first place in their Champions League group would certainly be a big boost for the Saints.

Their opponents Porto only need one point from Parc des Princes to finish top of the group, but the Dragons are not the sort of team that would adopt a defence-minded approach in Paris.

Heavy spending in the last two transfer windows has yet to produce results for the French giants, who are still unable to realize their full potential.

With Zlatan Ibrahimovic scoring goals for fun this season, it appears Carlo Ancelotti’s side are too reliant on the Swedish striker, which is proving to be a problem.

PSG slipped to fourth in Ligue 1 standings after losing three of their last five league games, while Coupe de la Ligue defeat to Saint Etienne only added insult to injury.

It is for that reason that the hosts will be very motivated to give their best against Porto, so bear in mind home win pays 2.15 (23/20) at BetVictor.

After scoring 7 goals in last 5 matches for club and country, Zlatan Ibrahimovic is 2.00 (1/1) with Coral to get on the scoresheet against Porto.

Salvatore Sirigu should return to the side after recovering from injury, but Marco Verratti and Kevin Gameiro remain sidelined.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Sirigu – Jallet, Alex, Thiago Silva, Armand – Chantome, Matuidi, Maxwell – Menez, Ibrahimovic, Lavezzi.

The mere fact Porto have suffered their first defeat of the season in 19th game this term speaks volumes about team’s achievements this season.

While impressing on domestic stage and taking the driving seat in Primeira Liga title race thanks to the 8-2-0 record, the Dragons have been excellent in Europe as well, having already secured a place in the next stage.

Four wins and a draw saw Porto climb to the top of Group A, with just one more point needed to stay there at the end of the group phase.

With the players very motivated to make amends for the Taca de Portugal defeat to Sporting Braga, Porto can be backed at 3.75 (11/4) offered by Paddy Power.

Having bagged 12 goals in 16 games this season, Jackson Martinez is 3.00 (2/1) with Sportingbet to score at Parc des Princes.

Key players Lucho Gonzalez, Jackson Martinez and Joao Moutinho return after they were rested at the weekend, but Maicon and Emidio Rafael continue to miss out.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Helton – Danilo, Alex Sandro, Otamendi, Mangala – Moutinho, Defour, Lucho – Varela, Martinez, Rodriguez.

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