Real Madrid will host Paris St Germain on Wednesday night in a Champions League clash dripping with superstars and intrigue.
Here, Press Association Sport examines five key talking points of the last-16 first leg battle.
Zidane downplays pressure over his future
Star billing has the neutrals excited
? Madrid ??
? #RaceToTheStars pic.twitter.com/fy0QQ4tKby
— PSG English (@PSG_English) February 13, 2018
Former Barcelona forward Neymar will be back on enemy territory in different colours on Wednesday, attempting a smash-and-grab raid on his old rivals, but this time for PSG. The Brazil star has impressed steadily since his move to France, but will know the size of the challenge awaiting in Madrid. Any neutral football fan will relish Neymar pitting his wits against the likes of Real totem Cristiano Ronaldo, but Madrid boss Zidane has been at pains to remind his players the encounter will be about so much more. “Tomorrow is a case of Real Madrid against PSG not Neymar against Cristiano,” he said.
PSG seeking vindication in Madrid
PSG squad for tomorrow’s @ChampionsLeague showdown with @realmadriden !! ??? pic.twitter.com/d8sFuCwMQk
— PSG English (@PSG_English) February 13, 2018
The last time PSG pitched up at the Bernabeu, they dominated the tie but lost out 1-0, in Champions League group stage action back in 2015. Now Unai Emery’s men believe they are ready to rule the continent, thanks to acquisitions like Neymar and Angel Di Maria. The Parisians still have plenty to prove, but know full well there are precious few better places to flex some title-challenging muscle than in Real’s fortress home ground.
Madrid focused on performance not systems
??? @Cristiano: “On Wednesday we have a very important match against a great team. What me and the team are asking for is your unconditional support like always and together we will be much stronger. Hala Madrid!” #APorLa13 pic.twitter.com/N1SL44D2m0
— Real Madrid C.F.???? (@realmadriden) February 13, 2018
Balancing all their attacking talents has long proved among Real’s toughest challenges. But under-fire boss Zidane insists his side’s system and formation should not matter. Instead he has challenged his players to perform to their best whatever shape they are asked to employ.
Cavani itching to dominate biggest stage
