Mbappé to both impress and distress Real Madrid
The knockout stages of the 2021/2022 UEFA Champions League have finally arrived, serving up in the process some huge clashes between European giants. Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid will go toe-to-toe at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday night in the first leg of their last 16 encounter. Kylian Mbappé remains coveted by his opponents, and he won't be shy about showing them just why. Read our preview here:
Mbap on song
Mauricio Pochettino's charges warmed up for their titantic clash by securing a 1-0 home win over Rennes in Ligue 1, where they enjoy a 13 point lead with 14 matches left to play. Sergio Ramos is unlikely to be fit in time to face his old side, whilst Ander Herrera will also be a big miss in midfield. Nevertheless, a front three of Leo Messi, Ángel Di María, and Kylian Mbappé will combine to be a menace all evening long. The former has turned more creator than goalscorer in the French capital in domestic competition, but has maintained his lethal streak in continental games.
Benz is revving up
Karim Benzema is rumoured to be winning the race to be available for Carlo Ancelotti from the outset, and even at 34, shows no signs of slowing down. The forward is dominating the top scorers' chart in La Liga, which he has combined with his typical efficacy at bringing others into the picture. All of the first choice XI should be present, and much will depend on whether Casemiro and Luka Modrić have the ability to take a stranglehold on the tempo in midfield.
Betting tip
Everything is set up for an excellent spectacle for the neutral, and Real Madrid are unlikely to come to Paris satisfied with a draw from the first leg. Kylian Mbappé is all set to steal the show once more however, and Parimatch have odds of 4.50 for him to open the scoring.
