Gameweek 2 of the UEFA Champions League delivers one of Barcelona’s most anticipated fixtures of the season, as two of the competition’s favourites go head-to-head. Despite injury concerns on both sides, anticipation is sky-high at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, where fans are bracing for a high-stakes clash under the lights.
Barcelona come into the tie on the back of a 2–1 victory over Real Sociedad that lifted them to the top of La Liga, while PSG maintained their dominance in Ligue 1 with a routine win over Auxerre. Both sides arrive in form, setting the stage for a European night that promises intensity, drama, and quality in abundance.
Three main talking points
Will Lamine Yamal start?
The Spaniard marked his return from injury against Real Sociedad on Sunday, making an instant impact off the bench by setting up Robert Lewandowski’s winner within seconds of coming on. Now, Yamal will be eager to test himself once again against one of Europe’s top full-backs in Nuno Mendes.
The injury ruling out Ousamme Dembele detracts from the fixture as it will be good to see the two Ballon d’Or contenders this year battle it out, with the most significant contribution potentially setting the next year prize winner very nicely.
Injuries will detract from the spectacle
The attacking spectacle may be somewhat diminished, with Barcelona missing Raphinha and the European champions without the likes of Dembélé, Doué, and Kvaratskhelia. Vitinha and João Neves are also fitness doubts, though both have been included in the squad.
Even with those absences, the match still promises plenty of star power. Pedri, if he finds his rhythm, has the chance to further cement his reputation as one of the best midfielders in world football. In attack, Barcelona can still call on Marcus Rashford, Robert Lewandowski, and potentially Lamine Yamal, while PSG boast the talents of Bradley Barcola, Gonçalo Ramos, and Senny Mayulu to carry their offensive threat.
Start Strong
Barcelona have earned a reputation as the comeback kings this season, staging three fightbacks from losing positions. But overturning deficits against Spain’s mid-table sides is one thing, doing it against the European champions is quite another. PSG remain a formidable force, and while sitting deep may not align with their usual philosophy, they have the quality and pace to protect a lead and punish Barcelona on the counter.