PSG Faces Strong Test Against Brest in Champions League Clash

PARIS, France — The Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) soccer team prepares to face Brest on February 19, 2025, in the return leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff at the Parc des Princes. After a comfortable 3-0 win in the first leg, PSG aims to secure their place in the knockout stage.

Manager Luis Enrique has made a significant change by starting Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, marking the Georgian’s first Champions League start for the club. Kvaratskhelia replaces Désiré Doué, who has been moved to the bench for this important fixture. Enrique’s decision highlights Kvaratskhelia’s growing influence in the squad, as he hopes to bolster the attack against a determined Brest side.

On the opposing end, Brest’s coach Éric Roy has opted for several changes in his lineup. Grégoire Coudert will start in goal, taking the place of Marco Bizot. Notably absent from the starting eleven are key players such as forward Ludovic Ajorque and midfielder Mahdi Camara, both sidelined in favor of Mama Baldé and Romain Faivre, respectively. This indicates a tactical shift as Brest looks to adapt to the challenge posed by PSG.

The official lineups for both teams are as follows:

**PSG:** Gianluigi Donnarumma – Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos (captain), Pacho, Nuno Mendes – João Neves, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz – Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé, Barcola.

**Brest:** Coudert – Luck Zogbé, Christophe Chardonnet (captain), Coulibaly, Haïdara – Edimilson Fernandes, Lees-Melou, Pereira Lage, Faivre – Sima, Mama Baldé.

The match presents an opportunity for PSG to assert their dominance and advance confidently through the tournament, while Brest aims to leverage the surprise factor from their altered lineup to create an upset.

Reflecting on the strategic implications, Enrique said, “We respect every opponent in this competition. Brest has a solid squad, and despite our lead, we must approach this match with full seriousness and commitment.”

Meanwhile, Roy emphasized the importance of resilience in his team, stating, “We need to forget the first leg and focus on the task at hand. My players are ready to fight and show our capabilities.”

Fans are eagerly anticipating the kickoff at 21:00 local time, as both teams look to make their mark in this crucial Champions League bout.