PSG now knows all its potential opponents in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
Having emerged without incident from its double confrontation with Real Sociedad in the round of 16 of the Champions League, PSG can expect a much tougher challenge in the next round. The cast for the quarter-finals is now known and looks great despite the absence of a few big names.
On Wednesday, Inter Milan, finalist of the last edition and uncompromising leader of Serie A, fell in the round of 16, eliminated by Atletico Madrid on penalties. A little earlier, Borussia Dortmund had in turn validated their ticket to the quarter-finals by dominating PSV Eindhoven, guaranteeing France to maintain their fifth place in the UEFA Index.
The Ruhr club is also the best draw for PSG. The two teams had already crossed paths during the group stage and the capital club, after winning at the Parc des Princes on the first day (2-0) had brought back the point of the draw at Signal Park (1-1) after dominating the debates. Despite its resilience, Atletico Madrid would not be a bad draw considering other potential rivals either.
Manchester City and Real as scarecrows
However, two teams should be avoided: Manchester City, title holders, and Real Madrid, impressive leader of La Liga and which essentially brings back bad memories for the Rouge et Bleu. A reunion with Thomas Tuchel and Bayern Munich would not be good news either. In dire straits recently, the Bavarian giant has regained its splendor and still benefits from an offensive potential like no other.
As for the last two teams qualified for the round of 16, Arsenal and FC Barcelona, they would promise undecided confrontations but PSG would have a real card to play. If they are at the top of the Premier League, the Gunners are less imperial on the European scene as evidenced by their difficulties against FC Porto in the round of 16. The Blaugrana also suffered against Naples and dropped by Real in the league, they seem generally connected to alternating current since the start of the season.
