PSG vs Chelsea Champions League clash is now a real possibility after Paris Saint-Germain sealed their place in the last 16 with a dramatic aggregate win over Monaco.
The holders progressed 5-4 over two legs following a tense 2-2 draw on Wednesday night. Monaco had briefly threatened to turn the tie around, but PSG’s response under pressure underlined why they remain one of Europe’s most dangerous sides.
Now, Chelsea or Barcelona await in Friday’s draw.
PSG vs Chelsea Champions League tie possible
Monaco struck first just before half-time through Maghnes Akliouche, putting PSG under renewed stress. However, momentum shifted dramatically after Mamadou Coulibaly’s red card early in the second half.
Marquinhos equalised on 60 minutes before Khvicha Kvaratskhelia fired PSG ahead six minutes later. A late goal from Jordan Teze set up a nervy finish, and Wout Faes came agonisingly close to forcing extra time with a glancing header that drifted wide.
Despite the scare, PSG held firm.
Desire Doue made it clear that whoever emerges from the draw, the French champions will approach it with belief.
“It’s going to be two great games,” he told UEFA.
“In any case, we’ll approach them with a lot of confidence, and we’re ready to go up against them regardless of which team it is.”
He added: “We’re really happy to get through. It was so important to pass this test. We managed to show great spirit and remained resilient.”
Luis Enrique: “We are ready”
Head coach Luis Enrique echoed that sentiment.
“We are ready to play against any team, we are used to playing these difficult matches. Barcelona or Chelsea, it will be great,” he said.
Chelsea’s European pedigree means PSG would face a side comfortable in high-pressure knockout ties. However, the French side’s comeback against Monaco highlighted their ability to manage adversity.
It remains too early to predict how a potential PSG vs Chelsea Champions League meeting would unfold. Much will depend on fitness levels, squad rotation and domestic momentum heading into the ties.
Key Insights
- PSG progressed 5-4 on aggregate against Monaco
- Chelsea or Barcelona await in the last 16
- Doue says PSG will be confident against either
- Luis Enrique insists his side are prepared
- PSG showed resilience after going behind
What’s Next
The Champions League last-16 draw takes place on Friday, when PSG will discover whether Chelsea or Barcelona stand in their path. Both potential opponents present different tactical challenges, and preparation will begin immediately once the tie is confirmed.
Would PSG relish a statement clash with Chelsea on the European stage?
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