PSG and Brest Clash in Champions League Playoff Showdown

GUINGAMP, France – Paris Saint-Germain will face Brest on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Stade Francis-Le Blé in the crucial first leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff tie. This matchup marks the third meeting between the two teams this season, with PSG claiming victory in both previous encounters.

The match is set to begin at 17:45 GMT. PSG enters the game in strong form after a decisive 4-1 victory over Monaco, showcasing their dominance in domestic competitions. Meanwhile, Brest is looking to turn their fortunes around, having recently secured back-to-back wins in Ligue 1.

“We are ready for the challenge that PSG presents,” said Brest coach Eric Roy. “They are a strong side, but we believe in our capacity to compete at this level.”

PSG’s recent success adds psychological pressure on Brest, who have struggled against the capital club in their past matchups. Adi Hutter, Brest’s coach, remains hopeful despite the stark challenges faced by his squad, specifically their hunt for Champions League qualification for the next season.

In terms of team news, PSG has only a few injury concerns ahead of the match, with Warren Zaire-Emery and Ibrahim Mbaye out due to ankle sprains. Notable is the potential debut of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who joined PSG in the January transfer window.

The projected starting XI for PSG includes: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Neves, Vitinha, Lee; Barcola, Ousmane Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia.

Brest, on the other hand, will be missing several key players. Bradley Locko (leg), Karamoko Dembélé (muscle), and Jonas Martin (muscle) are sidelined due to injuries. The team is expected to line up as follows: Marco Bizot; Steve Lala, Christophe Chardonnet, Coulibaly, and Haidara; Mohamed Camara, Leo Lees-Melou, and Maxime Magnetti; Romain Faivre, Ludovic Ajorque, and Balde.

The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports in the UK and Paramount+ in the USA. Additionally, it will be available on DAZN in Canada. Fans who wish to watch the game in the U.S. can also take advantage of a free trial offered by the streaming service.

Statistics favor PSG as they have maintained an impressive unbeaten run in their recent competitions. They are currently topping the Ligue 1 standings and aiming for a fourth consecutive title while desperately seeking their first Champions League trophy.

In their last five encounters, PSG has emerged victorious in four matches, with a notable 5-2 win against Brest earlier this month. Brest must find a way to challenge PSG’s dynamic front line, led by the high-scoring Dembélé, who has found his stride lately.

While Brest has shown resilience in the league, they face a daunting task against one of Europe’s top teams. Experts predict a challenging game for Brest and see PSG as strong favorites, potentially clinching a comfortable victory with careful execution.