PSG v Liverpool: Riolo gives his verdict on the quarter-final

In partnership with

Parisfans.fr

·19. März 2026

PSG v Liverpool: Riolo gives his verdict on the quarter-final

Present on RMC Sport Wednesday evening, the editorialist Daniel Riolo shared his opinion on the upcoming Champions League quarter-final between Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool (April 8 and 14). He clearly favored PSG, stating that only Bayern Munich could rival them in the game.

Riolo "I don't see how."

"I don't even see how this Liverpool team can trouble PSG. I don't see how. Technically, there's no contest, and tactically it's the same. I don't even see how. Saying that it's possible for Liverpool to qualify? Of course! Football always has surprises, you could get a red card, or have an injury. But I think PSG is better than last year and Liverpool is weaker. I think they have a level of confidence that is much higher than last year, and I think that's what makes the difference.

Riolo "Only Bayern can be put up against them"

Last year, when PSG didn't really know what they were capable of, they suffered in the return match at Anfield. They managed to endure and won the match. This year, not only have they learned to suffer, they know how to dominate, they have the mentality, they know how to bounce back even when they're dominated. They have a perfectly tuned collective game, probably the best of all the teams still in the competition alongside Bayern. Only Bayern can be put up against them, that's all. The rest isn't as well-oiled."

As always, Riolo goes to extremes and the possible "analysis" gets lost in exaggerations. PSG seems to be the favorite against a Liverpool still seeking consistency and certainty this season. Paris has gone through turbulence, logically without a summer preparation, and has managed to bounce back. There is a sense of building momentum, and it's known that there's a superb group that has no one to fear.

OneFootball Videos

However, nothing is won in advance, no team is perfect, and Liverpool has its strengths. The Reds were admired last season, and some foundations remain, including very great players and a collective idea. Nothing will be easy for Paris, Liverpool is a real challenge. Even if the Parisians have the means to progress further.

Bayern Munich would then be a possible opponent, but they must eliminate a Real Madrid that is always formidable in the Champions League. The latter has already reminded us that the "well-oiled collective" is not everything. There are many ingredients for these great Champions League nights. It is nevertheless clear that a new confrontation between PSG and Bayern Munich (after the one in the league phase) would certainly be exciting. These are admirable teams, which Riolo did not claim about PSG not long ago. And caution is advised before seeing, like him, a Paris already in the semi-finals, even if we believe in it.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.