Neymar Picture Credit: Twitter
Paris Saint Germain surely could be referred to as the unluckiest team in the modern-era of the UEFA Champions League. Having had a squad that could outrun, beat and score against any opposition, they still haven't been able to clinch the coveted trophy. But this year looks like none other as PSG have already avenged their last-year's loss in the final against Bayern Munich by knocking them out in the quarterfinals. Now they face the tournament favorites, Manchester City.
Paris Saint-Germain is just the third French team to reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League in consecutive seasons after St Etienne in 1975 and 1976 and Olympique de Marseille in 1990 and 1991. PSG would be keen on reaching their 2nd consecutive UEFA Champions League final. They would be only the 9th team to do so in back-to-back campaigns.
Players to Watch Out for-
The one player who can take PSG to the 2020-21 UEFA Champions League Final is Kylian Mbappe. The French striker has already been involved in 41 goals for his club so far, having scored 31 of them in this campaign. His blistering pace and finesse is his asset and knowing that Manchester City defenders could be outranked, Mbappe’s presence could the deciding factor.
The other key player to focus from PSG would be Brazilian Striker, Neymar, who looked in golden touch against Bayern Munich. On his given day, Neymar could score from anywhere on the pitch. Plus, his ability to come down to receive the ball, trying to run the game-play can cause severe harm to City’s youngsters. It will also give Angel Di Maria more space to make offensive runs.
Recent Form-
In their most recent 5 games in all competitions, PSG have lost 2 and won 3, having conceded 10 goals. Although they also have the domestic league on stake, being only 1 point behind Lille. PSG would not want to miss this golden chance to triumph in the Champions League this season. PSG will throw everything at their disposal to strengthen their offensive strength against Manchester City.
How Can Paris Saint-Germain beat Manchester City?
Ever since the beginning of the 2020-21 season, we have seen a tactical change in PSG’s game. While they used to go and attack from the very 1st minute of every game. However, under Mauricio Pochettino, PSG tend to sit back and feast on the attacking intent of the other team. That is what they would need against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, who consider slowing down the game as their last option.
PSG’s dominance lies in their speedy attackers, be it on the counter or feeding the ball over the top of the defense. Both Di Maria and Mbappe take care of the flanks while Neymar comes down deep to collect the ball and looks to free teammates with his pin-point passes. One might suggest that Manchester City have the most creative mid-field in the world, being led by Kevin de Bruyne. But PSG are also not behind with the presence of Di Maria and Neymar in their ranks.
Paris Saint-Germain have managed to breach every club’s defensive lines, courtesy of Neymar and Mbappe. It would be safe to say that if these two connect, there is no stopping PSG from reaching their second consecutive finals. But will Guardiola allow them this freedom, it remains to be seen as every opportunity will count when PSG takes on Manchester City on April 29.