European champions Paris Saint-Germain welcome Barcelona to the Parc des Princes tonight for a UEFA Champions League league-phase encounter between two sides with serious ambitions of lifting the trophy.
Both teams have made impressive starts to their European campaigns, winning their opening two matches, meaning this third-round meeting offers an early opportunity to establish themselves among the competition's leading contenders.
Match Details and How to Watch
PSG versus Barcelona gets under way at 8pm on Tuesday, October 20, at Parc des Princes, Paris. The game is being shown on TNT Sports 2 and TNT Sports 9, and TNT Sports customers can stream proceedings via the HBO Max app.
Team News and Key Players
PSG are expected to have plenty of attacking quality available, with Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue among the key players to watch. Nuno Mendes is reported to be unavailable, which could force a change at left-back. Senny Mayulu is also a doubt, while the final starting XI will determine whether there are any further changes.
Barcelona have defensive concerns ahead of the game, with Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia ruled out after picking up injuries. Andreas Christensen and Roony Bardghji are also listed among the absentees, while Gerard Martin is a doubt.
Form and Context
The Spanish giants arrive in the French capital in confident mood after an emphatic 5-2 victory over Real Betis in La Liga. Hansi Flick's side have been prolific in front of goal, with Lamine Yamal providing creativity and unpredictability in attack.
However, Barcelona's defensive injuries could prove a significant concern against opponents who are capable of punishing even the smallest mistakes, particularly when given space to counter-attack. The hosts, meanwhile, will be looking to use home advantage as they continue their bid for a third consecutive Champions League title.
The major positive for Barcelona is the potential return of Raphinha to the starting XI. Flick has indicated that the Brazilian is set to start, giving Barcelona another important attacking option alongside Lamine Yamal.
