Barcelona could exact revenge vs French giants PSG
After finishing second in the UCL league table, Barca are through to the knockout stage alongside seven other teams, patiently awaiting the playoff round to determine their opponent. Of the remaining teams, they could face Paris Saint-Germain, Benfica, AS Monaco, or Stade Brestois—four clubs that present their unique challenges.
Among those potential matchups, the most significant storyline surrounds a possible showdown with PSG. A rematch with the French giants would bring back painful memories for Barcelona fans, as last season’s Champions League quarterfinal saw them suffer a gut-wrenching collapse. Despite holding a commanding 4-2 aggregate lead early in the second leg, an untimely red card to Ronald Araujo flipped the match on its axis. With Barca reduced to 10 men, PSG took full advantage, scoring four unanswered goals to eliminate the Catalan side.
It was a loss that left a bitter taste. Barcelona had outplayed PSG for much of the tie, particularly in the first leg, where Raphinha shined, and the attack flowed with precision. Even in the second leg, they looked in control until Araujo’s dismissal.
The aftermath saw frustration spill into the locker room, with players like Ilkay Gundogan openly acknowledging how costly that mistake had been. It was a moment that derailed Barcelona’s best chance at a major trophy last season.
Now, they may have a chance at redemption. Unlike last season, PSG no longer has the mighty Kylian Mbappe, who was instrumental in their comeback. However, the Parisians remain dangerous, having recently added Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from Napoli to fortify their attack. On paper, Barcelona matches up quite well, but defensive consistency will be key if they are to get past PSG this time around.
Beyond PSG, the draw offers other intriguing possibilities. Monaco, another French club, already defeated Barcelona once this season in the Joan Gamper Trophy, a result that, while in preseason, was still an early blemish on Hansi Flick’s tenure. Stade Brestois, the least heralded of the four, would represent a more favorable draw, though no team at this stage can be underestimated. Meanwhile, Benfica pushed Barcelona to the limit earlier this season in a thrilling 5-4 encounter, showcasing their ability to go toe-to-toe with Spain’s best.
Regardless of who they face, Barcelona has a clear goal—Champions League glory. The squad has shown an attacking fluidity that makes them one of the most dangerous teams in Europe, but defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern. If they can tighten up at the back while maintaining their offensive firepower, this could be the year they take the next step.
More than just a chance to advance, the round of 16 could serve as Barcelona’s moment to rewrite last season’s painful script. If the opponent is PSG, it will be about more than just progression—it will be about amending last year’s painful loss.