Champions League Round of 16: Real Sociedad – PSG

Real Sociedad were one of the surprises of the group stage, with incredible performances in a tough group with Portuguese champions Benfica and last year CL finalist Internazionale. They will have a difficult task up ahead to reach the quarter final as PSG will cherish their 2-0 lead from the first leg. The French Champions will be determined to go all the way for their first Champions League title in what looks Kylian Mbappe´s final season at the club. 

Real Sociedad team News

Real Sociedad will be especially disappointed that key player Odriozola missing the game because of a knee injury. They will miss 5 players in total due to injury , definitely not ideal in a crucial game like tonight’s clash.  

PSG team News

PSG have a few injuries up ahead for their last 16 encounter. Slovak centre back Skriniar will not be able to feature while also Marco Asensio and strong centre back Presnel Kimpembe have been ruled out. The problems especially concentrate around Centre back with Skriniar and Kimpembe both out and Marquinhos being doubtful ahead of the clash. 

Real Sociedad Form

Real Sociedad that started the season brightly have seen a recent slump in their form. Especially at home where they have failed to win 7 competitive games in a row. The basques only managed 2 wins in their last 10 games in all competitions, a worrying sign with such an important match coming up. The spanish side will hope that a special champions league night with the backing of their fans will inspire them for rising their performance. 

PSG Form

PSG drew twice in a row against Monaco and Rennes in the last 2 league games. These 2 draws have come after a 5 game winning streak that has seen them take charge in the French League. They currently are 9 points ahead of number 2 Stade Brest and look comfortable to focus most of their energy on the Champions League. Luis Enrique´s side are actually on an impressive 20 game unbeaten run after their 2-1 defeat against AC Milan on 07-11-2023. 

What do the stats say?

• PSG are yet to win an away game in this season’s Champions League
• Real Sociedad have not won a single match in their last 7 competitive home games
• Real Sociedad have won only 2 of their last 10 games
• PSG are unbeaten in 20 games

Our verdict

This one is quite a tough one to predict. Real Sociedad have been very strong at home in the Champions League but their recent form will not boost their confidence. PSG have not been playing very great football but are yet to be beaten in 20 games. However, they know that even a small defeat can be enough to push through so they will primarily come to control the damage and see the game out. A draw or PSG double chance look like decent options but can be tricky.