Real Sociedad Vs PSG Match Preview (1 Viewer)

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Three weeks after an exciting clash at the Parc des Princes, Real Sociedad and Paris Saint-Germain are ready to face off again at the Reale Arena on Tuesday night.

In their previous encounter, the Ligue 1 champions weathered an early storm to secure a 2-0 victory. Since then, their hosts have faced disappointment in the knockout stages once again. Real Sociedad, who reached the semi-finals of the European Cup in 1982-83, showed glimpses of promise in the first half at the Parc des Princes but struggled to convert their chances.

Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring for PSG in the 58th minute, followed by Bradley Barcola's solo effort. Real Sociedad now face a two-goal deficit, and history isn't on their side, having suffered similar setbacks in previous knockout rounds.

Despite a recent win over Mallorca, Real Sociedad has experienced three consecutive defeats, including a heartbreaking loss in the Copa del Rey semi-finals. Their home form is also concerning, with seven winless matches since November.

On the other hand, PSG aims to break their last-16 curse in the Champions League. With a 20-match unbeaten run, they're in a strong position, although recent draws in Ligue 1 raise some questions. Gianluigi Donnarumma's heroics have been crucial for PSG, who aim to maintain their aggregate lead in Spain.

Although PSG has struggled defensively against Spanish sides in the past, their recent away form suggests they're prepared for the challenge. Despite memories of past disappointments, PSG remains confident under the guidance of coach Luis Enrique.

INJURIES & SUSPENSION​

Real Sociedad will have key defender Aritz Elustondo back for the second leg after he missed the first due to a suspension for yellow cards. However, he was sidelined in the loss to Sevilla due to a toe injury.
Alongside him, several other players were unavailable, including Martin Merquelanz, Alvaro Odriozola, Aihen Munoz, Carlos Fernandez, and Ander Barrenetxea, though Barrenetxea might make a return on Tuesday.

Real Sociedad coach Alguacil rotated his squad heavily for the weekend game against Sevilla with an eye on the second leg. It's expected that players like Mikel Merino, Robin Le Normand, Hamari Traore, Mikel Oyarzabal, and Takefusa Kubo will return to the starting lineup.

Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain's Kylian Mbappe was substituted early in the past two Ligue 1 matches, but his coach clarified that it was a tactical decision. Although Mbappe seemed to have a slight limp, it's unlikely he'll be benched for the second leg.

Marquinhos may be on the bench due to a minor issue from training, while Danilo Pereira is available. However, Milan Skriniar, Sergio Rico, Layvin Kurzawa, and Presnel Kimpembe are ruled out due to injuries.

Additionally, Marco Asensio had to be substituted early against Monaco due to a thigh injury, potentially paving the way for Bradley Barcola, who scored in the first leg, to return to the starting lineup.

POSSIBLE LINE-UPS​

Real Sociedad possible starting lineup:
Remiro; Traore, Zubeldia, Le Normand, Galan; Mendez, Zubimendi, Merino; Kubo, Silva, Oyarzabal

Paris Saint-Germain possible starting lineup:
Donnarumma; Hakimi, Pereira, Hernandez, Mendes; Zaire-Emery, Ugarte, Vitinha; Dembele, Mbappe, Barcola

EXPERT PREDICTION​

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Real Sociedad 1-3 PSG

PSG knows they were lucky to keep a clean sheet in their recent draw against Monaco, thanks largely to Donnarumma's exceptional goalkeeping skills. However, they're aware of their tendency to falter in the second leg of matches.

Real Sociedad will likely field a strong lineup with key players returning, presenting a formidable challenge for PSG. Yet, Real Sociedad's poor home record is concerning, and PSG is expected to secure a spot in the quarter-final draw under Enrique's guidance.