Barcelona defender looking to redeem himself after 2024 horror show vs PSG | OneFootball

Barcelona are set to lock horns with Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tonight.

This promises to be an important game for Joao Cancelo, who will be mindful of the 2024 horror show against PSG, where he was criticised heavily for his performance.

Indeed, during the quarterfinal of the 2023/24 season, when Barcelona faced PSG, Cancelo produced a poor display that may still haunt him to this very day.

The Portuguese international was caught napping on Ousmane Dembele’s equaliser and conceded a penalty that ultimately allowed PSG to seal the tie in their favour.

Cancelo’s troubles did not end there, as the Portuguese veteran was completely outplayed in the following game against Real Madrid.

Cancelo looking to redeem himself

Aware of the mishaps of the 2023/24 campaign, Cancelo, currently in his second spell at Barcelona, is looking to redeem himself tonight, reports AS.

Cancelo seeking redemption tonight. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

The Portuguese international is expected to operate on the flanks, where he will have the responsibility of not only thwarting Atleti’s wingers but also offering some creativity in the final third.

Cancelo has been exceptional since joining Barcelona on a loan deal in January. He has featured in 13 matches and has secured one goal and four assists. He has been among the team’s top performers in recent months.

The former Inter Milan defender was quite exceptional the last time Barcelona met Atleti, as he helped the Blaugrana secure a 2-1 win, notably creating the team’s winning goal with an excellent run.

Such kind of attacking input will be essential for the Catalans as they look to dismantle an Atletico Madrid side ready for war tonight.