When Barcelona host Paris Saint-Germain at the Estadi Olimpic Lluís Companys for a UEFA Champions League Estadi Olimpic Lluís Companys on 1 October 2025, all eyes turn to a clash the Catalan faithful have been dreaming of since the 4‑1 defeat in April 2024.
Historical backdrop: Past clashes and French rivalry
The most recent meeting between the two sides was a quarter‑final in April 2024, when Luis Enrique—then managing Barcelona—watched his former club Paris Saint‑Germain cruise to a 4‑1 victory. That loss remains Barcelona’s only defeat in the last 12 home Champions League games, a record that includes nine wins and two draws. Oddly enough, the very same stadium that saw the 2024 thrashing will host the revenge match.
Current form: Barcelona's rise and PSG's momentum
Since Flick took over in the summer, Barcelona have surged. A 2‑1 win over Newcastle United—thanks to a Marcus Rashford brace—kick‑started their campaign, and a gritty 2‑1 comeback against Real Sociedad kept them top of La Liga after seven fixtures. They’re unbeaten across all competitions, a stark contrast to their recent struggles against French clubs (only two wins in six encounters).
Across the border, Paris Saint‑Germain arrive on a wave of form: four straight Champions League victories, twelve goals scored and just one conceded. Their attack, powered by the likes of Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, looks lethal, while the defence, anchored by Marquinhos, has been rock‑solid.
Tactical preview: What Flick and Enrique might deploy
Hansi Flick has hinted at a 4‑2‑3‑1, with veteran Wojciech Szczęsny between the sticks after injuries to Marc‑André ter Stegen and Joan García. In defence, captain Ronald Araújo will marshal a back line that could feature 18‑year‑old Pau Cubarsí at centre‑back alongside Julio Koundé on the right. On the left, Gerard Martín may step in if Alejandro Balde remains doubtful.
Midfield will likely see Pedri paired with Frenkie de Jong, with Marc Casadó offering a creative spark if Gavi stays out. For PSG, Luis Enrique could line up a 4‑3‑3, letting the likes of Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé (if fit) and a returning Kylian Mbappé stretch Barcelona’s defence.
Injury list and lineup speculation
Barcelona will be without Raphinha, Gavi and possibly Alejandro Balde. On the PSG side, Ousmane Dembélé, Marquinhos, Désiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are ruled out. João Neves, Fabián Ruiz and Vitinha sit on the injury edge, while Pedri admits the squad will need to "go all out to dominate and press".
Key facts at a glance
- Champions League Matchday 2, 1 Oct 2025, 21:00 CET.
- Venue: Estadi Olimpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona.
- Barcelona: unbeaten in 7 league games, top of La Liga.
- PSG: four straight Champions League wins, 12‑1 goal ratio.
- Eight of the top‑12 Ballon d’Or contenders expected to feature.
What the result could mean for the campaign
If Flick’s side extracts a win, it would be the first time Barcelona have beaten PSG at this stadium since the 2022‑23 group stage, and it could catapult them into a comfortable Group C lead. A draw would keep the pressure on both clubs—Barcelona would still sit second, while PSG would lose a crucial cushion ahead of the winter break.
Conversely, a PSG victory would reinforce their reputation as the “best team in the world,” a phrase Flick himself used in a pre‑match press conference. It would also give Luis Enrique a personal triumph over his former charge, further sharpening the narrative for next season’s El Clásico.
What’s next for both clubs
Barcelona travel to Manchester United for their third group game on 15 Oct 2025, while PSG face Juventus in Marseille on 18 Oct 2025. Both fixtures will test how the lessons from this Barcelona‑PSG showdown translate into the broader group race.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this match affect Barcelona’s chances of topping their group?
A win would give Barcelona a six‑point buffer, making them likely group leaders even if they slip in later games. A draw still keeps them in contention, but they would need to rely on other results against Manchester United and Juventus.
What are the key tactical battles to watch?
Watch how Pedri and Mbappé handle each other’s space – Pedri’s vision versus Mbappé’s pace. The midfield duel between Frenkie de Jong and Luis Enrique’s central trio will also decide possession control.
Which players are most likely to miss the game?
Barcelona’s Raphinha and Gavi are doubtful after hamstring knocks, while Alejandro Balde’s fitness is still under observation. PSG will be without Marquinhos and Ousmane Dembélé, and João Neves may be a late‑scratching option.
What does a PSG victory mean for Luis Enrique’s legacy?
Beating his former club in a high‑profile Champions League tie would cement Enrique’s status as a top European manager, reinforcing his résumé after leading PSG to the semifinals last season.
When is the next Champions League match for each team?
Barcelona face Manchester United on 15 October 2025 in Barcelona, while PSG travel to face Juventus on 18 October 2025 in Marseille.
The 4‑2‑3‑1 set‑up looks like a safety net, not a bold statement. Flick is playing it too safe when he should challenge PSG's speed.