For Paris Saint-Germain to secure a spot in the Champions League final, they must be firing on all cylinders.
The French giants, yet to claim the prestigious trophy in their esteemed history, face the challenge of overcoming a resilient Borussia Dortmund side at the Parc des Princes this week.
Trailing 1-0 on aggregate following Niclas Fullkrug’s first-half goal at Signal Iduna Park last week, Luis Enrique’s squad need to showcase their full arsenal of skills and tactical acumen.
Here’s how PSG could line up for the second leg of their semi-final.
GK: Gianluigi Donnarumma – Donnarumma will likely need to keep a clean sheet here if PSG are to have any hope of progressing.
RB: Achraf Hakimi – Clattered the woodwork at Signal Iduna Park and will hope to have adjusted his sights before Tuesday’s game.
CB: Marquinhos – A stalwart at the back, the Brazilian will need all his experience now Lucas Hernandez is out injured.
CB: Lucas Beraldo – Will likely be stepping in for the injured Lucas, whose ACL injury will keep him out for the majority of 2024.
LB: Nuno Mendes – Endured a forgettable match in Germany as Jadon Sancho kept him constantly under pressure. If Luis Enrique decides to include Mendes in the starting lineup again, he must significantly elevate his performance.
CM: Warren Zaire-Emery – This 18-year-old midfielder will have to emulate his previous display. He was outstanding in the first leg against Dortmund, seldom misplacing a pass and showing great determination in defence.
CM: Vitinha – A talented player who flew under the radar in Germany. Hopefully, playing on home soil will bring out the best in the 24-year-old.
CM: Fabian Ruiz – Supporters will be hoping he’s dedicated time to improve his heading skills in preparation for the second leg, as he missed two clear opportunities in the first.
RW: Ousmane Dembele – Dembele has burned one former employer in this competition already and will hope to add Dortmund’s scalp to his mantel.
ST: Kylian Mbappe – This could be Mbappe’s final Champions League game in PSG colours if things don’t go to plan. He claims to be desperate to lead PSG to this trophy, so it’s time to see that desire.
LW: Bradley Barcola – Barcola was a real threat in the last leg but needs his shooting boots on this time around.
