PSG welcome Atletico Madrid to the Parc des Princes in what should be an intriguing matchup between two of Europe’s biggest sides.
Date: 06/11/24
Kick-off time: 20:00
Venue: Parc des Princes
Despite the departure of Kylian Mbappe over the summer, PSG have made a strong start to their season leading Ligue 1 by six points after 10 games. However, they have not had as much success in Europe, winning just one of their opening three games and sitting on four points. This leaves them in 19th place with a battle to progress automatically to the knockout stages. Though a win over Atletico could see them significantly climb the table. Anything less would put more pressure on their remaining four games.
It is a similar story for the visitors as they have won one and lost two in Europe so far. In 27th, they are outside of the playoff positions. Although, three points would change their fortunes and put them right back in the mix. Diego Simeone’s side have been inconsistent as of late, failing to win two games in a row in the league since mid-September.
Uncharacteristically for a Simeone team, Atletico are vulnerable at the back. Aside from a first round Copa del Rey victory against lower league opposition, they have kept one clean sheet in seven games. Only five other clubs have conceded more than their eight goals in the Champions League. On the other hand, PSG have scored in all but one of their games this season. Bradley Barcola has had a very impressive season, scoring eight goals. He is his side’s main threat and will be confident in causing damage to the opposing defence. He is still looking for his first European goal of the season.
Goals have been hard to come by for the Spaniards, especially in this competition. They have found the back of the net on just three occasions in three games. They have not fared much better in the league as they have scored 18, the lowest figure in the top four. Antoine Griezmann and summer signing Julian Alvarez both lead the way with four goals in all competitions, and will likely be the main threats for the hosts to contend with.
This will be the first time these two teams meet in the Champions League. They previously played against each other in a pre-season friendly in 2018. PSG have played against Spanish opposition on 41 occasions, most frequently against Barcelona and Real Madrid. They have won 18 of these games. Atletico have faced French opposition just 14 times, with seven wins.