Pacho under scrutiny, more exposed, as Joao Pedro test looms before PSG v Chelsea | OneFootball

After a standout last season, PSG centre-back Willian Pacho enters the Champions League last 16 on a flatter run, his duel with Joao Pedro set to be a revealing measure. Questions centre on duels lost and how exposed he is.

In recent weeks Folarin Balogun has repeatedly troubled him, sharpening doubts over his usual one-v-one dominance, L'Équipe reports. PSG lost 1-3 to Monaco at the Parc des Princes last Friday.

Is this a short-term dip, perhaps tied to a season without a proper pre-season, or something more structural? With a less dominant collective, Pacho is being asked to contest more duels deeper towards his own goal, which raises risk. Heavy minutes and long-haul international travel to South America could also weigh.

Inside the club his consistency is still praised, and he retains full confidence. He has played 2,729 minutes this season.

Midfield protection has been reduced, Nuno Mendes has lost duels and Marquinhos has struggled, factors that leave him highly exposed.

Now comes Joao Pedro, quick, powerful, two-footed and strong in the air, regarded by Blues supporters as among their most complete No 9s since Didier Drogba. He could trouble Pacho, yet the defender has often risen to such tests.

With the first leg on Wednesday and the return next week, that battle could shape the tie.

Source: L'Équipe