The stage is set for Matchday 5 of the UEFA Champions League. With the group stage coming to an end, it is time for some nerve-wracking fixtures for qualification. On Wednesday night, Manchester City will host PSG in what will be the trademark fixture of the week. When the draws were made, this fixture was looked at as the most-awaited due to the players that these sides possess. With qualification not guaranteed for both sides, it will be a match to watch out for just like it was on Matchday 2 when PSG ran out 2-0 winners.
Why you should be watching
When these 2 sides will clash, it will be a great match to watch out for as it was seen on Matchday 2. When the likes of Neymar, Messi, and Mbappe will go up against the likes of Cancelo, Foden and Mahrez it is sure to be a high-octane clash.
Build Up
Manchester City
The hosts come into the match on the back of a 3-match unbeaten run which also included a win over derby rivals Manchester United. The Pep Guardiola-led side has been clicking in unison, such as the depth that Manchester City possesses. However, their talisman Kevin De Bruyne will be out of Wednesday’s clash after testing positive for COVID-19. The likes of Phil Foden, Riyad Mahrez, and the versatile Joao Cancelo will be expected to lead the charge in order to get the win.
Manchester City is currently top of their group, by 1 point over PSG and a win on Wednesday could seal the qualification and first place. However, a loss would make things more complicated, and it would send PSG top of the table.
Predicted Line-up
Formation : 4-3-3
Gk: Ederson
Defense: Walker, Dias, Stones, Cancelo
Midfield: Bernardo, Rodri, Gundogan
Attack: Mahrez, Sterling, Foden
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PSG
The Parisiens come into the match on the back of the 7-match unbeaten run. In the recent match against Ligue 1, Lionel Messi too got his first goal in the league. With the return of Sergio Ramos too, PSG will go into the match with confidence against Manchester City. The likes of Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe will be crucial if they are to get the win against the hosts. Currently, in 2nd place, PSG will be looking to go top of the table with the win and top the group eventually. Sergio Ramos might come into the starting 11 after having trained with the group the week before.
Predicted Line-up
Formation : 4-3-3
Gk: Navas
Defence: Hakimi, Marquinhos, Kimpembe, Mendes
Midfield: Verratti, Gueye, Wijnaldum
Attack: Messi, Mbappe, Neymar
Players to watch out for
Manchester City
Joao Cancelo
The Portuguese full-back has been exceptional this season for Manchester City. Cancelo, who can play on either left or right side of the defense has become one of the key players and first names for Pep this season. Against PSG too, Cancelo and his creativity will play a key role if they are to get the win.
Phil Foden
The English youngster has risen onto the highest stage this season, performing week in week out in the Champions League as well as the Premier League. In the absence of KDB due to recent injuries, Foden has become the creator in-chief for Manchester City. Capable of playing across the attack, Foden will be a key player on Wednesday.
PSG
Kylian Mbappe
The Frenchman has been leading the line for PSG this season. In the absence of Neymar due to injuries and Messi still settling into his new team, Mbappe has been crucial in front of the goal. Against Manchester City, Mbappe will play a key role if they are to go and win.
Keylor Navas
The Costa Rican has been brilliant ever since signing for PSG. Against Manchester City, if PSG is to win, Keylor Navas will play role in keeping the goals away and getting the clean sheet. Against the City attack, it will be difficult to keep them at bay but given Navas’ experience in the Champions League, he will play a key role.
Conclusion
All in all, Manchester City vs Paris Saint-Germain is going to be a fixture to watch out for. With the quality on show on both sides, do not be surprised If it turns out to be one of the best fixtures in the Champions League.
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