MONEY STILL ON TOTTERING REAL

Defending champions Real Madrid, hoping to claim their third successive title, take on wannabe champions Paris Saint-Germain in one of the headline clashes of the Champions League round of 16 tonight. Considering how vulnerable Real currently are, it is a

CONTRASTING FORTUNES

At the same stage last season, Real Madrid were going strong as they went on to defend their Champions League title and also reclaim La Liga. PSG on the other hand failed to capitalise on a 4-0 first-leg advantage and lost to Barcelona. However, things have taken a drastic turn since then. PSG have bolstered their line-up with the likes of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe. Unai Emery’s side is 12 points clear at the top in Ligue 1.

Real Madrid are struggling in La LIga, placed fourth in standings, 17 points off leaders Barcelona. They had finished second in their Champions League group while PSG topped their group finishing ahead of German giants Bayern Munich on goal difference.

RONALDO V NEYMAR

Considering the galaxy of stars that would take field, this is a mouth-watering clash no doubt. However, all eyes will be on Cristiano Ronaldo (right) of Real Madrid and Neymar of PSG.

They carry the hopes of their teams and would like to reassert their importance with a stellar performance. However, both are only getting into the groove this season. Ronaldo has struck 11 goals in league so far while Neymar has 18.

9

GOALS scored by Ronaldo in six CL matches this season

6

GOALS scored by Neymar in as many CL matches this season.

ZIDANE ON THE WANE

Zinedine Zidane is hoping to win his third Champions League as manager but his magic seems to be wearing-off going by Real’s results this season. However, Zidane and his players are capable of pulling themselves up by their bootstraps. They are facing some issues on the defensive front while their forwards are getting into their stride. With pressure mounting, Zidane will hope to find some succour in Europe.

PSG’S HIGH EXPECTATIONS

Once their owners from the Gulf started pumping big bucks, PSG were expected to join the elite in Europe. However, they have not been able to fulfil that dream. Having bolstered their squad with big guns, they will be hoping to get past Real and go all the way to the title. However, they may have to wait for some time for European glory as Real, even in current state, look to have the necessary ammunition to silence them.

STARS TO WATCH

Real Madrid: Besides Ronaldo, Los Blancos will be pinning their hopes on Bale and Karim Benzema. Madrid’s BBC is long overdue a superlative performance and PSG presents them a good chance to make an impact.

PSG: While all eyes have been on Neymar, Edison Cavani has gone about his job efficiently and is currently leading the scoring chart for PSG. Mbappe and Angel Di Maria are others to watch out for.