Ahead of Wednesday's clash in the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League UEFA Champions Leaguesoccer fans around the world are gearing up for what promises to be an epic showdown between Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund.
Both teams have overcome formidable challenges to reach this stage, setting the stage for a showdown of epic proportions.
The Current Form of Both Clubs
PSG's journey to the semi-finals has been marked by a mixture of dominance and drama. After their recent triumph in securing the Ligue 1 title, the French giants are now focused on European glory.
Despite dealing with injuries to key players such as Marquinhos and Nuno Mendes throughout the season, PSG appear to be close to full strength for this crucial match.
Coach Luis Enrique, charged with leading PSG into the semifinals, exudes confidence, emphasizing the unwavering support of both players and club.
Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund, led by coach Edin Terzić, face a daunting task. Their domestic form has been less than stellar, with just one Bundesliga win since April.
However, the recent acquisition of Englishman Jadon Sancho from Dortmund on loan injects additional power into their squad, strengthening their attacking options.
With home advantage in the first game, Dortmund are expected to adopt an aggressive stance, setting the stage for a captivating encounter.
As anticipation grows, all eyes are on the expected lineups for both teams. Borussia Dortmund are likely to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with key players such as Kobel, Hummels and Sancho.
Meanwhile, PSG are expected to deploy a 4-3-3 formation, with the likes of Donnarumma, Marquinhos and Mbappé leading their efforts on the pitch.
❗️Vorteil Borussia❗️ pic.twitter.com/zAaqO7IaN8
- Borussia Dortmund (@BVB) May 2, 2024
Past clashes in the Champions League
Going back to previous competitions, PSG and Dortmund met in a fierce battle during the group stage. In one instance, PSG secured a crucial home win against Dortmund, but faced a tough draw in the second leg, ultimately securing their progression to the next stage. This was just one chapter in the saga of their rivalry.
Delving into history, PSG, under the guidance of Antoine Kombouaré, crossed paths with Jürgen Klopp's Dortmund in the pre-QSI era.
Group J saw the teams engage in a strategic stalemate, culminating in a goalless draw in Germany, showcasing the defensive resilience of both sides. However, the tension peaked in the second leg at the Parc des Princes, with Dortmund taking the lead through a Nuri Sahin penalty.
PSG, however, made up ground with a late equalizer from substitute Clément Chantôme, a crucial result on their way to leading the group.
Also recalling the Round of 16 of the 2019-20 UEFA Champions League, the clash between PSG and Dortmund took place amid the context of the growing COVID-19 crisis.
The first match in Germany saw Dortmund secure a 2-1 victory, courtesy of Erling Haaland's outstanding performance, putting PSG on the back foot. However, the second leg at the Parc des Princes saw a resurgent PSG deliver a solid 2-0 victory.
Neymar and Juan Bernat got their names on the scoresheet, boosted by a corner from Angel Di Maria, showcasing PSG's attacking power and tactical adaptability.
Despite the absence of spectators inside the stadium, the fervor outside was palpable, with two thousand fans supporting PSG, providing an additional source of motivation.
PSG's win over Dortmund in the Round of 16 epitomized their ability to overcome adversity and perform under pressure. Their Champions League run that season, marked by victories over Atalanta and RB Leipzig, culminated in a historic appearance in the final.
This victory over Dortmund not only secured their progression, but also underlined PSG's resilience and determination in the face of challenges.
With both teams now ready for battle, the first match of this tantalizing semi-final promises to offer excitement and drama in abundance. PSG's stellar lineup and Borussia Dortmund's home advantage guarantee an exciting spectacle, with fans eagerly anticipating.
