After both teams secured victories in their opening Champions League fixtures—Barcelona powered by Marcus Rashford’s performance against Newcastle and PSG easing past Atalanta—the spotlight now shifts to this marquee matchup. The history between the two clubs is storied, with PSG having won their last two away games against Barcelona, including a notable 4-1 victory in February 2021 and a crucial win in April 2024. Should PSG triumph again, they would become the first team to secure three consecutive away victories over Barcelona in major European competition.
The home side, managed by Hansi Flick, are missing key players such as Raphinha, Joan Garcia, Gavi, and Fermín López due to injury, but can now count on the return of full back Alejandro Balde after he was passed fit for selection. Wojciech Szczęsny starts in goal, with Ferran Torres preferred up front over Robert Lewandowski. The squad also includes standout talents like Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, and Dani Olmo, while Lamine Yamal’s dynamic play on the wing continues to draw attention.
PSG, under former Barcelona manager Luis Enrique, are missing several first-team regulars, including Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue, Marquinhos, Vitinha, and Joao Neves. Luis Enrique, who guided Barcelona to nine trophies including the 2014–15 treble, makes an emotional return to his former club. PSG’s young lineup features Senny Mayulu making his first Champions League start, flanked by academy product Ibrahim Mbaye and Bradley Barcola.
Much of the pre-match focus is on the midfield battle between Barcelona’s Pedri and PSG’s Vitinha—two of the most influential playmakers in Europe. The tactical duel also extends to the wings, where PSG’s Nuno Mendes is tasked with containing the threat of Yamal.
Both teams currently top their respective domestic leagues, with Barcelona outscoring opponents 21-5 and PSG 12-4. According to soccer expert Jon Eimer, the absence of multiple PSG starters tilts the prediction slightly in Barcelona’s favor, with Lamine Yamal tipped to score or assist based on his recent form, having contributed to goals in six consecutive matches.
The match kicks off at 3 p.m. ET (9 p.m. CEST) and will be broadcast live on Paramount+ in the United States, with additional coverage available on DAZN, Amazon Prime Video, discovery+, and TNT Sports depending on region.
As Barcelona and PSG renew their rivalry, the outcome could have significant implications for the rest of the Champions League campaign. The Catalans will look to leverage home advantage and recent form to overcome the reigning champions, while PSG’s youthful squad aims to make history in hostile territory.