In another highly anticipated Round of 16 clash in the UEFA Champions League 2023-24 season, all eyes turn to Anoeta as Real Sociedad prepares to host PSG. The first encounter between these titans saw PSG emerge victorious with a commanding 2-0 win, courtesy of goals from Mbappe and Barcola.
However, as the battleground shifts to Sociedad's home turf, the dynamic of the encounter is set to evolve. Real Sociedad, currently positioned 7th in their domestic league with 10 wins, 10 draws, and 6 losses in 26 matches, are keen to overturn their previous defeat and make a statement on their home ground.
Meanwhile, PSG, perched at the summit of their league table with an impressive record of 16 wins, 6 draws, and only 1 loss in 23 matches, aims to maintain their dominance and secure another triumph. With both teams boasting formidable talent and hunger for success, this upcoming showdown promises to be a spectacle of skill, strategy, and sheer determination.
As Real Sociedad prepare for their crucial clash against PSG, they face some significant player absences. Mikel Oyarzabal, the team's leading scorer in La Liga with 8 goals, finds himself sidelined due to injury, dealing a blow to Sociedad's attacking prowess. Additionally, Alvaro Odriozola's absence until March leaves a void in the defensive lineup.
However, despite these setbacks, Sociedad can rely on the talents of Takefusa Kubo, who has netted 7 goals this season, and Martín Zubimendi, known for his overall contributions with 4 goals and 32 interceptions. Brais Méndez and Mikel Merino provide creative spark with 3 assists each in the league, while Méndez boasts the highest shot count for the team with 47 attempts.
In defence, Robin Le Normand's impressive tally of 62 clearances highlights his importance in thwarting opposition attacks. Despite the challenges, Sociedad will look to rally their remaining troops and deliver a strong performance against PSG.
Kubo and Normand are the team’s key players.
Predicted Lineup: Alex Remiro, Hamari Traore, Igor Zubeldia, Robin Le Normand, Kieran Tierney, Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi, Brais Mendez, Ander Barrenetxea, Andre Silva, Takefusa Kubo.
Looking ahead to PSG's crucial showdown against Real Sociedad, the Parisian side grapples with significant player absences. Mikel Skriniar and Presnel Kimpembe's injuries will sideline them until March, posing a challenge to PSG's defensive stability. Furthermore, the uncertainty surrounding Marquinhos' fitness adds to the defensive concerns for the French giants.
However, amidst these setbacks, PSG can rely on the prolific attacking duo of Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele. Mbappe leads the league's goal-scoring charts with an impressive tally of 21 goals, accompanied by 4 assists, while Dembele shines as the top assist provider with 7 assists to his name. Additionally, Randal Kolo Muani and Vitinha have contributed significantly with 6 and 5 goals respectively, bolstering PSG's attacking options.
In terms of creativity, Achraf Hakimi and Bradley Barcola have provided 4 assists each, further enhancing PSG's offensive threat. In goal, Gianluigi Donnarumma boasts an impressive save percentage of 79.2 in the league, instilling confidence in PSG's defensive capabilities.
Skriniar and Kimpembe are definitely out.
Predicted Lineup: Gianluigi Donnarumma, Achraf Hakimi, Danilo Pereira, Marquinhos, Beraldo, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz, Warren Zaire-Emery, Bradley Barcola, Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele.
With PSG holding a significant advantage from the first leg and boasting a formidable lineup despite some defensive setbacks, they are favoured to secure another victory, likely by a narrow margin, in the second leg against Real Sociedad.
Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele's attacking prowess, combined with Gianluigi Donnarumma's reliability in goal, should see PSG through to the next round of the UEFA Champions League.
However, expect Real Sociedad to put up a spirited fight on their home turf, aiming to salvage pride and potentially secure a draw in a closely contested encounter. Overall, PSG's superior quality and depth make them the favourites to advance in this Round of 16 clash.