Paris Saint-Germain – Newcastle United: Newcastle Hold Out Against Reigning Champions In Unwanted Stalemate (1-1)

A win would confirm Paris Saint-Germain’s place in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, and a win is what they looked like they would storm towards as they blitzed Newcastle United. However, storms pass, and Newcastle’s game plan blossomed as they fought back to earn a draw. A result that suited neither side, with both dropping into the playoffs. 

Tactical analysis and match report by Nick Hartland.

Paris Saint-Germain have yet to find the rhythm that saw them saunter to a maiden UEFA Champions League trophy last season. At times, they looked relentless in their title charge, but this season, fatigue has set in, leading to recurrent injuries that have stalled the side and made them look a far more fragile outfit. 

It was a return to the Parc des Princes for Newcastle United. The stadium had been the site of an unhappy memory the last time these two teams met, when PSG received a controversial 95th-minute penalty to secure a 1-1 draw. Newcastle would be hoping to make far happier memories on Wednesday evening. 

Luis Enrique went with a 4-3-3 shape. Between the sticks, Lucas Chevalier was surprisingly dropped in favor of Matvei Safonov. In defense, Nuno Mendes, Willian Pacho, Marquinhos, and Achraf Hakimi. Fabián Ruiz’s injury meant Warren Zaïre-Emery lined up alongside Vitinha and João Neves in midfield. Up front, Bradley Barcola and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia flanked Ousmane Dembélé. 

Eddie Howe opted for a 5-2-3 formation. Nick Pope was in goal behind a back five consisting of Lewis Hall, Dan Burn, Sven Botman, Malick Thiaw, and Lewis Miley. In . . .