PSG mapped out path to defend Champions League title
PSG knows its path to the Champions League final won’t be easy, starting with a playoff against Monaco before a tough run in the knockout stages.
A tough start in the playoffs
The Champions League draw has pitted Paris Saint-Germain against Monaco in the playoffs. The first leg will be at Stade Louis-II on February 17 or 18, with the return at Parc des Princes on February 24 or 25. The winner will face a formidable opponent in the round of 16: FC Barcelona or Chelsea.
The path to Budapest, set to host the final on May 30, is already lined with challenges. After failing to finish among the top eight in the group stage—a feat that would have secured direct qualification—the reigning champions must navigate the playoffs again, just like last season.
Potential round of 16 clash
If PSG advances past Monaco, the knockout stage presents a major test. Chelsea, now led by Liam Rosenior after he replaced Enzo Maresca, has regained form and sits fifth in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Barcelona, led by Lamine Yamal, tops La Liga, though they have stumbled in Europe, including a 2-1 defeat to PSG in October.
The round of 16 draw will take place on February 27, setting the stage for intense matchups against one of Europe’s elite clubs.
Quarter-final threats
Looking ahead, PSG could face a daunting quarter-final against Liverpool, depending on how the other playoff matches unfold. In that half of the bracket, the winner of Galatasaray vs Juventus would meet Liverpool or Tottenham, meaning PSG’s route is far from straightforward.
The semi-finals could bring even stiffer competition, with potential opponents including Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, or Real Madrid.
Theoretical “easier path” for PSG
Fans can dream about a more navigable route: facing Chelsea in the round of 16, Galatasaray in the quarter-finals, and Sporting or Benfica in the semi-finals. However, the reality remains that every stage offers high-level opposition.
Theoretical PSG bracket:
- Playoffs: Monaco
- Round of 16: FC Barcelona or Chelsea
- Quarter-finals: Liverpool, Tottenham, Juventus, or Galatasaray
- Semi-finals: Benfica, Real Madrid, Sporting, Manchester City, Borussia Dortmund, Atalanta, Arsenal, or Bayern Munich
