Liverpool’s Quest for Champions League Glory
Liverpool’s pursuit of Champions League glory continues this evening as they embark on a crucial away leg against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at the Parc des Princes. Under the guidance of Arne Slot, Liverpool finished top of their group in the new league phase, securing a direct passage to the last-16 stage. Their impressive run, with seven wins out of eight in the league phase, has set the stage for a strong European campaign. Despite facing a formidable opponent, Liverpool can afford to focus their energy on this competition, given their commanding 13-point lead at the top of the Premier League.
Match Details
The highly anticipated clash between PSG and Liverpool is scheduled to kick off at 8pm GMT on Wednesday, March 4, at the iconic Parc des Princes in Paris, France. For those in the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1, with coverage commencing at 7pm. Subscribers can also stream the game online or via the discovery+ app. A TNT Sports subscription, available for £30.99 per month, can be purchased through the discovery+ platform, providing fans with an immersive viewing experience.
Team News
Liverpool’s squad has a notable absentee in Cody Gakpo, who is a major doubt for the match after sustaining a knock on Tuesday. However, the forward has traveled to Paris with the team, leaving the door open for a possible appearance. In his absence, Arne Slot may opt for Diogo Jota or Darwin Núñez to lead the attack. Alternatively, he might deploy Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai as ‘false nines,’ a tactic he successfully employed against Manchester City. Liverpool’s defensive and midfield selections appear more straightforward, with Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley ruled out due to injury.
PSG, on the other hand, boasts a fully fit squad with no reported injury concerns. Warren Zaire-Emery, who recently recovered from an ankle injury, is in contention to replace Desire Doué in midfield, though Vitinha is more likely to start. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who has been impressive recently, could return to the lineup, with Ousmane Dembele expected to start as the central striker. Bradley Barcola, known for his pace and creativity, is likely to take up a position on the flank.
Predicted Line-ups
PSG XI:
- Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Beraldo, Mendes; Vitinha, Ruiz, Neves; Kvaratskhelia, Dembele, Barcola
Liverpool XI:
- Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz; Jota
Odds and Prediction
The odds for the match reflect the closely balanced nature of the contest. PSG is favored at 7/5, with the draw at 14/5, and Liverpool at 19/20. The Independent, a trusted source, vets betting sites for usability, security, and responsible gambling tools, offering readers the opportunity to claim free bets across various sports. However, it is crucial to read the terms and conditions before placing any bets.
Match Outlook
PSG enters the match brimming with confidence after their resounding 10-0 aggregate victory over Brest in the play-off round. However, Liverpool presents a different level of challenge, a team that, while not at their peak form, remains a formidable opponent. Arne Slot’s side has a history of delivering under pressure, and their strong defensive foundation, combined with the attacking brilliance of Salah, Jota, and Diaz, could prove crucial. Despite PSG’s recent form and home advantage, a narrow victory for Liverpool seems the most likely outcome, with a predicted score of PSG 1-2 Liverpool.
