Verdict: PSG over 1.5 cards
Best Odds: 19/20
Bookmaker: Dachbet
In what is a blockbuster Champions League semi-final showdown, PSG will welcome Bayern Munich to Paris for their first-leg battle on Tuesday night.
PSG
Starting with the hosts, while PSG might have been left shocked earlier in the month as they fell to a 2-1 loss at home against historic rivals Lyon, that result was nothing more than a minor blip for Luis Enrique’s side. Making real history last season as they stormed their way to a maiden European crown, the French icons have their sights firmly set on successfully defending their Champions League title over the coming weeks. Extending on their European adventure a fortnight ago as they breezed past Liverpool thanks to a 4-0 aggregate victory, the former Barcelona boss will know the importance of claiming a first-leg advantage here. Last seen over the weekend securing a 3-0 win away at Angers, PSG have won eight of their previous nine appearances across all competitions.
PSG Team News
In what looks set to be a huge blow for PSG on Tuesday night, midfield talisman Vitinha is expected to miss out with a heel issue. However, aside from the Portuguese international, Enrique’s camp have reported a clean bill of health and have no fresh injury concerns.
Handed a full domestic rest over the weekend, skipper Marquinhos will return at the heart of PSG’s defence. Enjoying a stunning Champions League romp this season and registering 13 direct goal contributions in as many European appearances (eight goals, five assists), Georgian ace Khvicha Kvaratskhelia should play a leading role in attack.
Bayern Munich
As for the visitors, officially defending their Bundesliga crown at a canter last week, Bayern Munich have rightfully received a string of plaudits from across the continent. Punching their semi-final ticket with a major statement of intent this month as they came past Real Madrid thanks to a thrilling 6-4 aggregate win, Vincent Kompany’s squad are widely regarded as a standout European contender over the coming weeks. Gaining a fearsome reputation for their free-scoring performances in the final third, the former Burnley boss has his sights set on completing an iconic silverware sweep. It should also be highlighted, extending on from their group stage adventure, Bayern have won 11 of their 12 Champions League showdowns during this season’s tournament and they have registered a staggering 38 goals.
Bayern Munich Team News
Suffering a long-term muscle injury this month, Bayern Munich have confirmed that German international Serge Gnabry will miss the remainder of the season. Handed a full domestic rest over the weekend, veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer will return between the sticks on Tuesday night.
Shattering a string of records this season and widely regarded as a standout Ballon d’Or contender, England skipper Harry Kane will spearhead Bayern’s charge in Paris. Enjoying what has been a remarkable campaign at the Allianz and with his stock at a red-hot high, ex-Crystal Palace star Michael Olise will partner Kane in the final third.
PSG vs Bayern Munich Key Factors to Consider
- When Bayern Munich travelled to Paris for a group stage showdown back in November, Tuesday’s guests made a real statement as they claimed a 2-1 victory.
- Bayern Munich have won 11 of their 12 Champions League appearances during this season’s tournament.
- Kompany’s high-flying squad have registered a staggering 38 goals in those 12 European performances this season.
- PSG have won eight of their previous nine appearances across all competitions.
- England skipper Harry Kane has registered 12 goals in his 11 Champions League appearances this season.
Conclusion
With all eyes falling on the French capital on Tuesday night, we look set for what is a blockbuster semi-final showdown here. Watching Bayern secure a shock 2-1 victory when they travelled to Paris for a group stage battle back in November, chances should come thick and fast in midweek. Two European giants who have gained respective reputations for their clinical performances in the final third, we could be treated to a real Champions League classic from the Parc des Princes.
Verdict: PSG over 1.5 cards
Best Odds: 19/20
Bookmaker: Dachbet
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