Three Key Player Battles- Chelsea vs PSG
Chelsea host Paris Saint Germain for a tough second leg of the Round of 16 tie that would decide the fate of both the teams. Mourinho’s men have an away goal advantage, but the Parisians come with a strong strike-force to vouch for their own away goals. It would be an interesting match and here are the player battles.
- Nemanja Matic vs Blaise Matuidi
Matuidi is the engine of the Paris side, and he provides the work rate and the offensive contributions to give dynamic dimensions to Paris’ attacking approach play. Ramires did a handy job the other day in the first leg, but Matuidi was clever enough to force his way to areas where Chelsea central midfield couldn’t affect him. However, at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea would be expected to have more possession and initiative, meaning Matuidi will be a threat on the counter and usually in the area where Matic plays.
Matic has proven to be a great block defensive midfielder shielding the back four completely and providing protection of the highest order. He is someone who is not so easily bypassed and Matuidi will be at his best to try and nullify Matic’s dominance. Matic would need to be wary of Matudi’s tricky movement while the Frenchman would have to maintain his flair or else risk getting his pocket picked by the giant Serbian.