Wed Feb 25 20:40:00 UTC 2026: ### PSG Faces Uncertainty in Champions League Clash Against Monaco
The Story:
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) enters a crucial Champions League play-off return leg against Monaco with lingering doubts despite their status as defending champions. The primary article highlights PSG’s inability to capitalize on a one-man advantage in the first leg, resulting in a narrow 3-2 victory. Injuries plague both squads, but PSG cannot solely blame absences if they fail to progress. The article emphasizes that PSG’s hopes of an easy path to glory have not materialized, and their defensive vulnerabilities, coupled with Monaco’s opportunistic scoring, create a precarious situation.
Key Points:
* PSG defeated Monaco 3-2 in the first leg despite Monaco playing with ten men for 44 minutes.
* Both PSG and Monaco have significant injuries impacting their squads. Key PSG absences include Dembélé and Ruiz.
* PSG’s defensive performance has been below par, with 13 goals conceded from 9.19 expected goals (xG) in their last 12 matches.
* Monaco’s Folarin Balogun is in strong form, having scored 5 goals in six C1 matches.
* Luis Enrique acknowledges the defensive statistics but expresses satisfaction with the team’s overall defensive effort.
* PSG has been a consistent presence in the Champions League round of 16 since 2012.
Key Takeaways:
* PSG’s defensive frailties are a significant concern despite their attacking prowess.
* Monaco poses a genuine threat due to their ability to score even without playing exceptionally well.
* PSG’s reliance on things becoming easier has not been a successful strategy.
* The absence of key players like Donnarumma and Dembélé weakens PSG’s position.
* French football’s overall performance in the Champions League is declining, highlighting PSG’s relative dominance within the nation.
First Piper 