PSG showcased their resilience by coming from behind to secure a 3-1 victory against Lille in Ligue 1 last weekend, while Real Sociedad suffered a surprising 1-0 defeat to Osasuna in La Liga.
Despite Lille taking an early lead, PSG swiftly turned the tide with goals from Goncalo Ramos and an own goal from Alexsandro, eventually sealing the win with a goal from Randal Kolo Muani.
Meanwhile, Real Sociedad returns to Champions League action after a two-month hiatus since clinching a spot in the last 16. Although they faced challenges in the group stage, finishing second in Group F, they are eager to make an impact in the knockout rounds.
PSG, aiming to end their European trophy drought, enters the last 16 for the 12th consecutive season but hopes to avoid a third straight elimination at this stage. They face a tough challenge against Spanish opponents, having been eliminated by them in five of the last six occasions.
Real Sociedad, currently seventh in La Liga, faces an uphill battle to secure Champions League football next season. However, their successful advancement to the last 16 for the second time in history presents an opportunity to make a mark in the competition.
Facing PSG for the first time, Real Sociedad seeks to improve on their previous round of 16 performance against French opposition, Lyon, where they suffered defeats in both legs.
With Real Sociedad struggling to find the net in recent matches, they need to sharpen their attack to secure a positive result against PSG, who have been formidable at home. PSG's unbeaten run at home since September adds to the challenge for Real Sociedad.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
PSG continues to deal with several key players sidelined due to injury, including Presnel Kimpembe, Milan Skriniar, Sergio Rico, Nuno Mendes, and Layvin Kurzawa. However, there's some hope on the horizon as Nuno Mendes and Layvin Kurzawa are nearing a return.Kylian Mbappe, despite recovering from a heel problem, was rested for the Lille game but is expected to lead the attack in the upcoming match. Manager Enrique might consider reintroducing other key players like Gianluigi Donnarumma, Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, and Warren Zaire-Emery, who were on the bench previously.
For Real Sociedad, the injury list remains lengthy, with Sheraldo Becker, Kieran Tierney, Alvaro Odriozola, Carlos Fernandez, and Aihen Munoz all sidelined. Additionally, top scorer Mikel Oyarzabal's availability is uncertain due to a muscle problem.
Manager Alguacil may reinforce the defense with the return of Hamari Traore and Robin Le Normand while making room for them by benching Jon Aramburu and Jon Pacheco.
In midfield, Brais Mendez could replace Benat Turrientes to join Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino, while Ander Barrenetxea and Umar Sadiq might return to support Takefusa Kubo in the attack.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Paris Saint-Germain possible starting lineup:
Donnarumma; Hakimi, Danilo, Marquinhos, Hernandez; Urgate, Zaire-Emery; Dembele, Asensio, Kolo Muani; Mbappe
Real Sociedad possible starting lineup:
Remiro; Traore, Zubeldia, Le Normand, Galan; Merino, Zubimendi, Mendez; Kubo, Sadiq, Barrenetxea
EXPERT PREDICTION
PSG 3-2 Real Sociedad
Nevertheless, with star player Mbappe back in form, PSG is considered the favorites for this clash. Their attacking prowess could give them the edge and potentially secure a vital first-leg lead.