Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea meet again in a Champions League knockout tie. In the 2015 and 2016 rounds of 16, the Parisian side won both series.

Today, the situation is very different. Luis Enrique’s team arrives after overcoming Monaco in the qualifying phase and seeks to reassert its authority in Europe, while Liam Rosenior’s Chelsea lands in Paris with confidence after a solid continental campaign, and, not only that, the Blues face the French side after beating them in the Club World Cup final.

With squads full of talent and two well-defined styles, the duel at the Parc des Princes promises to be one of the most attractive of this round of 16.

GK: Filip Jorgensen – Rosenior backed the Dane in key moments of the season, and the goalkeeper responded with important saves. He has shown composure to come off his line and quick reflexes in close quarters, qualities that can be decisive against an attack as dynamic as PSG’s.

RB: Reece James – The captain returns to his natural side, and his influence extends far beyond defense. He provides dangerous crosses and physical presence to hold his own against speedy wingers.

CB: Trevoh Chalobah – He is often the center back who corrects when the line is exposed. Strong in one-on-one situations and reliable in the air, he has established himself as a reassuring presence in the backline.

CB: Wesley Fofana – His ability to cover large spaces is key when the team pushes up. If he maintains concentration, his reading of the game and pace can neutralize the opponent’s quick transitions.

LB: Marc Cucurella – The Spaniard brings constant intensity to get up and down the flank. In addition to his aggressiveness in the press, he offers a wide outlet and crosses into the box when the team needs depth.

CM: Moises Caicedo – He is the main pillar of the Blues’ midfield. Tireless in pressing and recovering balls, he also distributes wisely to accelerate the offensive transition.

CM: Andrey Santos – The Brazilian provides tactical order at the base of midfield and also has the instinct to get into the opponent’s box. In several games, he has shown character by recovering in dangerous areas and turning that pressure into attacks.

AM: Cole Palmer – He is the player who generates the most imbalance in the opponent’s half. With changes of pace and shots from distance, he is often the one tasked with breaking down compact defenses. He already has one goal and two assists in this Champions League season.

AM: Enzo Fernandez – The Argentine dictates the tempo of the game and often finds the pass that breaks the lines. Pushed further forward than at other points in the campaign, he frequently gets into the opponent’s box and has already scored two goals in this Champions League.

AM: Pedro Neto – He is a constant threat when taking on defenders one-on-one. His acceleration and ability to beat his man allow him to stretch opposing defenses and create space for the attacking midfielders.

ST: Joao Pedro – He is enjoying one of his best seasons and has established himself as Chelsea’s offensive reference point. He has 14 goals in the Premier League and three in the Champions League, numbers that explain why the team trusts his ability to decide big games.

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