PSG vs Barcelona... A 'fiery summit'
French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez confirmed that Champions League matches will continue in France despite security tensions, as Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona prepare for their anticipated clash.
Translated by Qiyas from الراي — Original source
Paris, AFP – Attention in the third round of the unified group stage of the UEFA Champions League is focused on a “heated summit” clash between what are likely the two best teams in Europe today: French champions Paris Saint-Germain, holders of the title for the past two seasons, and Spanish side Barcelona, at Paris’s Parc des Princes. The French capital is witnessing violent unrest, but French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez has ruled out postponing matches in the country.
After a relatively shaky start to the season, PSG has begun to regain its rhythm, with their 3-1 victory over Strasbourg marking their sixth consecutive win across all competitions. None of these triumphs were more impressive than the 4-2 win over English club Manchester City in the second round, which extended their unbeaten run in the Champions League to 12 matches (eight wins and four draws), bringing them within one game of their record set in 2013.
Meanwhile, Barcelona has won all 11 of their matches this season after thrashing Real Betis 5-2, equalling a record by scoring at least three goals in nine consecutive games. They also set a new Champions League record by scoring four or more goals in four consecutive matches in the group or league phase.
Following two big away victories, Liverpool will face another thrilling European evening when they host Spanish visitors Villarreal, who are also enjoying a surge in form, at Anfield.
Paris, AFP – French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez has ruled out postponing football matches in the country, as intensive mobilization of security forces continues to confront violence and looting.
Speaking at a press conference alongside Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu, Nunez said that “the question of not holding the match in Paris between Paris Saint-Germain and (Spanish side) Barcelona is not on the table,” nor is it for “other matches that may take place in European competitions, particularly in Lille.” He affirmed that “the matches are not in doubt.”
French champions Paris Saint-Germain will face visitors Barcelona tomorrow, Tuesday, in the third round of the Champions League, while Lille will host Turkish side Galatasaray on Wednesday in the same round.
