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The second week of April has commenced, signaling the return of the UEFA Champions League. Among the much-anticipated fixtures of the quarterfinal stage is Paris Saint-Germain hosting FC Barcelona at Parc des Princes on late Wednesday night, scheduled to kick off at 8:00 pm GMT. Luis Enrique will be facing his former team, as well as his disciple, Xavi. 

The Ligue 1 giants managed to find a place in the Quarterfinals after defeating Real Sociedad in the round of 16 with an aggregate score of 4-1. Despite their recent draw against Clermont, PSG’s 27-game unbeaten streak across all competitions continues. 

On the other hand, Barcelona managed to get past Napoli in the previous round with a convincing 4-2 aggregate win over the Italian side. Under Xavi, they have experienced a domestic resurgence, winning four consecutive matches and remaining unbeaten for 10 games. 

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PSG vs. Barcelona: Injuries and expected lineups 

Paris Saint-Germain injuries

Based on the most recent injury update, Presnel Kimpembe is still recovering from his Achilles injury and won’t be able to play in the upcoming match. Nordi Mukiele is undergoing further tests following a concussion but could potentially return. Layvin Kurzawa is dealing with a back injury, and goalkeeper Sergio Rico is sidelined due to a head injury. Unfortunately, Achraf Hakimi will also miss the opening match against Barcelona due to suspension.

via Reuters

PSG expected lineup (4-3-3): Donnarumma; Zaire-Emery, Marquinhos, Skriniar, Mendes; Lee, Ugarte, Vitinha; Dembele, Ramos, Mbappe

FC Barcelona injuries 

FC Barcelona, on the other hand, is dealing with five fitness issues. Gavi (ACL) and Alejandro Balde (hamstring) are confirmed to be sidelined. However, Pedri (thigh), Andreas Christensen (Achilles), and Frenkie de Jong (ankle) have participated in training with the team in recent days, indicating a possibility of their return to the French capital. Fortunately, none of the Barcelona players are suspended for the opening fixture. Nevertheless, they have seven players at risk of missing the second leg if they receive bookings from the referee.

FC Barcelona lineup (4-3-3): Ter Stegen; Kounde, Cubarsi, Araujo, Cancelo; De Jong, Gundogan, Lopez; Yamal, Lewandowski, Raphinha

via Reuters

READ MORE: Real Madrid ‘Delighted’ With Kylian Mbappe’s Treatment by Luis Enrique Amid Recent Substitution Drama-Reports

Parisians vs Blaugrana: Head-to-head and prediction

Total Matches: 12

Won by PSG: 4

Won by Barcelona: 4

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Draws: 4

Each Champions League match has its own surprises. It’s no secret that both sides look to clinch a victory in the first leg. However, we reckon it’s going to be a compromising match for both sides and the score will be PSG 1-1 Barcelona. 

How to watch UEFA Champions League quarterfinal Leg 1 between PSG and Barcelona?

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Fans in the United States can catch the action live on Paramount+, with TNT Sports catering to UK spectators. 

READ MORE: “We Had the Money To Sign Him” – Kylian Mbappe to Barcelona Was Almost a Done Deal, Reveals Former Club Director