The Stade Louis II, home ground for Monaco, shall host the 1st leg of the UEFA round of 16 playoffs between defending champions Paris St Germain (PSG) and Monaco, on the 17th of February.
This all French clash between two familiar Ligue 1 rivals on the European stage will witness a keen contest with PSG going all out to assert their continental pedigree while Monaco will aim to leverage home advantage.
Recent Form
PSG had a mixed week coming into the play offs. The Ligue 1 and UEFA Champions played brilliantly against Marseille, beating them 5-0, but then at Roazhon Park, the champions went down to Rennes 1-3 in an indifferent performance, losing the top spot to Lens. In the Champions League, too, PSG have displayed a chequered form
Monaco, on the other hand, had a good win against Nantes at home and though they are placed 8th on the Ligue 1 table, the French side is a tough nut to crack in home conditions and can upset PSG’s game plans at the Stade Louis II.
Players to Watch Out For
Ousmane Dembele literally holds the key to PSG’s fortunes. He scored an incredible brace against Marseille, but needs his team to back him in the field. Much more would be required from Vitinha, Desire Doue, Barcola and a fit again Kvaratskhelia. Achraf Hakimi needs to fire too.
For Monaco, Adingra and Fati have the pace to create problems for PSG, and will look to break free against a seemingly vulnerable defence.
Tactical Approach
PSG have the pace, creativity and the guile to upset Monaco. They can stretch to the sides and attack Monaco fiercely. For them, attack is the best defence.
For Monaco, they would be banking on a tight, organised defence and sudden bursts on counters.
Expectations
PSG are clear favourites, but Monaco most recently enjoyed a 1-0 win against the Champions and coupled with home advantage, it appears to be an even contest. A draw may just be on the cards.
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