AS Monaco vs Paris Saint-Germain: Date, Time and Everything You Need to Know About the Champions League Playoff

Two Ligue 1 rivals collide in Europe with everything on the line. The first leg could define the entire tie.

When and Where

The clash between AS Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain will be played on Tuesday, February 17 at 3:00 PM ET at the Stade Louis II in Monaco. Spanish referee Jesús Gil will officiate the match, which opens this playoff round on the road to the UEFA Champions League Round of 16.

AS Monaco Preview

Monaco reached this stage after finishing 21st in the overall standings with 10 points, recording four draws and two defeats. Their final match in the league phase ended in a scoreless draw against Juventus, a result that secured their place in the playoff.

The Principality side showed inconsistency throughout the competition, but they tend to be strong at home and understand the importance of gaining an advantage before heading to Paris next week. In knockout football, protecting home ground is often decisive.

Paris Saint-Germain Preview

Paris Saint-Germain finished 11th with 14 points, earning four wins, two draws and two losses. Their last Champions League outing was a 1-1 draw against Newcastle United at the Parc des Princes.

Luis Enrique’s squad has had its ups and downs, but the depth and quality within the roster make them one of the favorites to advance. Even away from home, PSG carries the experience and firepower needed to control big European nights.

Soccer Football - UEFA Champions League - Sporting CP v Paris St Germain - Estadio Jose Alvalade, Lisbon, Portugal - January 20, 2026 Paris St Germain's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia celebrates scoring their first goal with Desire Doue REUTERS/Rodrigo Antunes

Key Players

For AS Monaco, the player to watch is Folarin Balogun. The American striker is the team’s main attacking threat and their best chance to hurt a familiar domestic rival.

On the Paris Saint-Germain side, all eyes will be on Ousmane Dembélé. The French winger remains the most explosive player in Luis Enrique’s lineup and the man capable of breaking the game open at any moment.

Match Outlook

PSG enters as the favorite despite playing away from home. Their squad depth and European pedigree give them a clear edge on paper. Still, Monaco knows this is only the first leg, and keeping the tie close would leave everything to decide next week in Paris.

The return leg at the Parc des Princes will ultimately determine who advances to the Round of 16. The opening chapter begins in the Principality.