Champions League: Pep Paris Prepped?

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January 22, 2025

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Champions League Betting: Man City v FC Copenhagen

If you went back in time to the league phase draw and told someone that the PSG vs. Man City match in mid-January would be billed as a Champions League elimination match, you’d have gotten some very strange looks. And yet here we sit with just two games remaining to decide their knockout stage fates, and both clubs sit on the precipice of a humiliating exit Reigning Premier League champions Manchester City, considered by many at the onset of the season to be Europe’s most formidable side, just a point above elimination. While neither side has given reason to be trusted, there’s also very little value for either club in a draw, especially the hosts. Thus, there will be an added push to snatch points late if the game is level, leaving little value on splitting the difference, even as both sides seem evenly matched.

PSG

Have several concerning defensive issues to contend with on Wednesday evening, with skipper Marquinhos and right-back Achraf Hakimi potentially missing out. Both have been absent in recent matches but the Moroccan right-back should be available in some capacity. Ousmane Dembele has been absent during the last two games due to illness but should return midweek, while January recruit Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is ineligible to feature as he can’t be registered in PSG’s Champions League until the knockout rounds.

Man City

Ruben Dias made his much-anticipated return at the weekend and partnered Manuel Akanji in the centre of defence. The Portuguese totem may feature again on Wednesday due to injuries to Nathan Ake and John Stones. Elsewhere, Man City are only without long-term absentees Rodri and Oscar Bobb, with the remainder of Guardiola’s squad available to him in France. The Catalan coach is unlikely to make sweeping changes from the side that beat Ipswich Town 6-0

Head-to-Head

In their last five encounters, Manchester City holds the advantage with four wins, while PSG has secured one victory. Their most recent meeting saw City triumph 2-1 on November 24, 2021, in the Champions League.

Prediction

Both teams have shown improvement recently, but Manchester City’s attacking prowess might give them the edge. A high-scoring game is anticipated, with City potentially clinching a narrow victory.