Aston Villa’s Champions League run is set to come to an end on Tuesday, unless they can produce a comeback against possibly the best side on the continent.
A late strike from Nuno Mendes wrapped up a 3-1 win for PSG in last week’s quarter-final first leg and the French giants were given the weekend off to focus on their return clash in Birmingham, putting them in the driving seat for a semi-final spot.
Aston Villa v PSG betting tips
- PSG to win at 21/20
- Ousmane Dembele to score anytime at 7/5
- Achraf Hakimi 1+ Shots on Target at 20/21
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Enrique Blinder in Birmingham
Villa’s hopes of a comeback rest on European specialist Unai Emery, but he faces a real test against compatriot Luis Enrique.
His spell in charge of PSG has transformed the team from weak-willed galacticos to an energetic, disciplined side. The visitors have put together a young team that is quickly living up to its potential, as they’re on course for an unbeaten domestic campaign alongside an impressive run in Europe.
Their 1-0 win at Anfield in the last round was a statement of intent from Enrique’s team. They got out to an early lead, before holding firm against the runaway Premier League leaders.
PSG quickly turned that tie on its head on Merseyside, but they head to Birmingham with a comfortable lead.
The visitors are perfectly built to hold firm against a Villa side looking to get back into this game, while their front three can catch the Villains out on the counter.
The visitors have won four straight away games in Europe, so back Enrique to mastermind a second-leg victory.
Dembele is a danger again
PSG’s recent signings have been focused on the future, but it’s 27-year-old Ousmane Dembele who has stepped up for them this season. The winger is revelling as the central striker in Enrique’s side, scoring 21 times in Ligue 1 this term.
Dembele has netted seven times in the Champions League this term, with six of those coming away from home.
The winger has scored in each of their last three away games in this competition and he’s likely to be a threat on Tuesday.
Dembele can lead PSG on the counter against a Villa side desperate to get back into the tie. He’s 7/5 to score anytime and 19/4 to score the final goal of the game.
Hakimi can push forward
After Nuno Mendes’ late strike in the first leg, PSG’s wing-backs are likely to be a big factor in Tuesday’s clash.
Achraf Hakimi has shown a willingness to get forward in Europe, recording 27 shots and 11 shots on target in 13 appearances this term.
He had two shots on target against the Reds in the last round, while the Moroccan has had a shot on target in all three games since the international break.
Hakimi can get forward in this clash, so he appeals at 20/21 to have another effort on target.
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