Barcelona vs PSG: Three key battles that could shape the Champions League clash | OneFootball

FC Barcelona will be determined to deliver a statement performance when Paris Saint-Germain visit the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium later today. While it is not a knockout tie, the occasion carries all the intensity and anticipation of a final.

Both sides have played some of the most attractive football in Europe over the past year and are led by two charismatic tacticians, Hansi Flick and Luis Enrique. Their duel on the touchline will be just as fascinating as the one on the pitch.

PSG come into this match as defending Champions League winners, while Barcelona are still haunted by their dramatic semifinal exit at the hands of Inter Milan. The Catalans were just minutes away from the final, only to see their hopes crushed late on.

Ahead of kickoff, Sempre Barca highlights three individual battles that could prove decisive in shaping the outcome of Barcelona vs PSG.

1. Lamine Yamal vs Nuno Mendes

Perhaps the most eagerly anticipated duel, Lamine Yamal’s clash with Nuno Mendes, promises fireworks. The pair have already met at club and international level, most recently in the Nations League finals.

Few full-backs can contain Lamine’s pace, flair, and unpredictability, yet Mendes is among the best in Europe and has built a strong reputation after shutting down elite attackers such as Mohamed Salah last season.

Lamine, however, relishes these challenges. As Barcelona’s most potent creative outlet, he thrives under pressure and will be expected to step up once more. The outcome of this battle could swing the momentum of the entire match.

2. Ronald Araujo vs Bradley Barcola

If Ronald Araujo is given the nod to start, all eyes will be on his duel with Bradley Barcola, a clash rooted in history.

The last time the two faced off at the Montjuic stadium, one reckless moment from Araujo shifted the balance and ultimately helped PSG knock Barça out.

This time, Araujo will be determined to make amends. His physical presence and defensive discipline will be crucial in stifling PSG’s attacking threat.

Enrique, however, knows Araujo’s weaknesses in possession and may once again look to exploit them by pressing high and forcing errors. Flick will need to prepare his defender for that scenario.

3. Frenkie de Jong and Pedri vs PSG Midfield

It is difficult to discuss Pedri or Frenkie in isolation now. The duo work in tandem at the base of Barcelona’s midfield and complement each other superbly, reminiscent of the Xavi–Iniesta partnership that defined the club for years.

PSG’s midfield is not set in stone, with several players carrying injury doubts. Regardless of who starts, their battle with Barcelona’s pair could prove decisive.

Few midfields in world football can rival the partnership of Pedri and Frenkie, but PSG may be one of them. Luis Enrique knows the duo well and will surely have a plan to limit their influence.

If Pedri and Frenkie are allowed to dictate tempo and rhythm, Barcelona’s chances of victory increase significantly. Their performance could ultimately decide whether Barça can overcome the reigning champions.