Paris Saint-Germain vs Barcelona preview

September 29, 2014
By: Nemanja Lazarevic

PSG vs BarcelonaPSG will be out to get revenge on Barcelona for the defeat on away goal rule in the 2012/2013 quarter-finals, but the Saints are not exactly on top of their game at the moment.

Meanwhile, the Catalans scored six at the weekend to make amends for the goalless draw against Malaga and they go into the clash at Parc des Princes in confident mood.

While dominating the French Ligue 1, Paris Saint-Germain have done pretty well in Europe’s elite competition on their last two appearances, having narrowly missed out on a semi-final berth both times.

The Saints first completely outplayed then red-hot Barcelona only to get eliminated on the away goal rule, before failing to hold on to a two-goal advantage from the first leg against Chelsea last season.

PSG are expected to ease off into the knockout stages this time out, but they will certainly want to get one over Barcelona and are 3.50 (5/2) to claim maximum points.

The Saints have experienced some problems of late and even though they are unbeaten this season, Laurent Blanc’s side have only won one of last five matches in all competitions.

PSG could only muster a 1-1 draw with Toulouse at the weekend, having come from a goal behind to earn one point.

Former Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is doubtful with a heel injury, while Thiago Silva and Ezequiel Lavezzi both miss out.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Sirigu – Aurier, Marqunhos, Luiz, Digne – Verratti, Motta, Matuidi – Lucas, Cavani, Pastore.

Having failed to win a single major trophy last term, new-look Barcelona hope for a much more successful season this time out.

The first signs have been more than positive considering that new boss Luis Enrique and most summer signings have adapted really well at Camp Nou, and the Catalans already lead the chase in Spanish La Liga.

While goalless draw against Malaga remains the only setback so far, Barcelona have won the remaining six games in all competitions, without conceding a single goal in the process.

And having out six past Granada at the weekend, the Catalans are available at 2.20 (6/5) with Betfred to win at Parc des Princes.

After scoring impressive six goals in just over four hours of league football, Brazil superstar Neymar is 3.00 (2/1) 888sport to score anytime.

Jordi Alba and Gerard Pique have recovered from injury, but Rafinha, Douglas and Thomas Vermaelen will not be on the plane to Paris.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Bravo – Alves, Mascherano, Mathieu, Alba – Iniesta, Busquets, Rakitic – Pedro, Messi, Neymar.

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