In-depth Analysis
PSG have the chance to extend their streak of 14 consecutive seasons reaching the Champions League Round of 16 if they avoid defeat against Monaco in this week’s play-off second leg. In the first leg at the Louis II Stadium, the reigning European champions produced an impressive comeback to beat Monaco 3-2 after trailing by two goals.
It was the first time in the 21st century that PSG won a Champions League knockout match after being two goals behind. Under the guidance of Luis Enrique (Lucho), the Parisian side have won their last four knockout matches and also triumphed in their two most recent home games. A victory would mean PSG have won seven of their last eight Champions League second-leg matches. They are also in outstanding home form, going unbeaten in eight of their last nine competitive matches at Parc des Princes, including two recent wins in Paris with an aggregate score of 8-0.
Furthermore, PSG are unbeaten in their last five meetings with Monaco in Paris and have not been eliminated by the principality side in any knockout tie this century.
Meanwhile, Monaco head into the second leg knowing that only a win will keep their qualification hopes alive. They have been eliminated in each of their last three Champions League knockout appearances and have not reached the Round of 16 since the 2016/17 season, when Kylian Mbappe inspired them to the semi-finals.
However, Sebastien Pocognoli’s men can take confidence from winning two of their last three matches against French opponents, including a comeback from two goals down to beat Lens 3-2 last weekend – a result that indirectly helped PSG reclaim top spot in Ligue 1.
That said, since the 2017 Round of 16 – when they overturned a 5-3 first-leg defeat to Manchester City by winning 3-1 at home and advancing on away goals – Monaco have never repeated such a comeback after losing the first leg. Their away form has also been underwhelming, with just one win in their last five competitive away matches, while conceding 12 goals in four Champions League away games this season.