PSG vs Slovan Bratislava : preview, prediction & how to watch
The European champions kick off the defence of their European title when they host SK Slovan Bratislava on Wednesday. Despite the fact that Belasi aren't as well known as Luis Enrique's side, they shouldn't underestimate a team that is going to be motivated to prove they aren't here to make up the numbers in this year's tournament. Les Parisiens' form isn't the greatest this season.
They are winless in their three league games, drawing twice and losing once. They succumbed to 2-2 draws away to Rennes and Lille and lost 2-1 last Friday at home to Monaco in their most recent league game. These results have left them 13th in the table, but it is too early in the season to be concerned.
AK Slovan Bratislava will feel like they should have had a better start to the season. They are currently fourth in the Slovak Super Liga. They have won four and lost two of their six league games thus far. While their start to the season hasn't been as underwhelming as PSG's, they will be disappointed that they are currently four points behind first-placed Dinajska Streda.
Here is our preview of PSG's first Champions League game of the season.
PSG vs Slovan Bratislava: Preview, prediction & lineups:
When is the kick-off? Wednesday, 9th August.
Where is it played? Parc des Princes.
What time is the kick-off? 8pm (UK) and 3pm (USA).
How to watch PSG vs Slovan Bratislava? TNT Sports 3 (UK), HBO Max (UK) and Paramount+ (USA).
Paris Saint-Germain team news:
Competition in the French champions' attack is fierce this season as new signings Mika Godts, Maghnes Akliouche and Ferran Torres are competing with Désiré Doué, Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for a place in the French champions' front three. The same can't be said for left-back, where Nuno Mendes will make that position his own again after returning from suspension.
Paris Saint-Germain possible starting lineup:
Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz; Doué, Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia.
Slovan Bratislava team news:
The Slovakian giants don't have any notable injuries ahead of the game on Wednesday which is good news as they need a full strength squad to give themselves the slimmest of chance against Luis Enrique's side.
Slovan Bratislava possible starting lineup:
Takac; Blackman, Bajric, Markovic, Cruz; Ibrahim, Pokorny, Martinez; Barseghyan, Sporar, Camara.
Prediction: Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 Slovan Bratislava
It is difficult to look past a convincing win for the European champions as Slovan Bratislava aren't used to facing opponents which are the calibre of PSG. Luis Enrique's side will not be complacent as this season has not got of to a great start.
Today's best reads
PSG vs Slovan Bratislava: Predicted starting lineup for Champions League opener
PSG vs Slovan Bratislava injury news as one ruled out with another set to return
Paris Saint-Germain's September schedule: Ligue 1, Champions League & more
How worried should Paris Saint-Germain fans be about their poor start to the season?
3 main talking points as Paris Saint-Germain continue winless run after Monaco defeat
