(Football news) The magical UCL nights return as PSG host Real Madrid for the first leg of the round of 16 tie. This fixture is the most eye-catching one of this round. PSG after all these glory years are still hunting for their maiden UEFA Champions League title, while Real Madrid are looking to add another one to their already illustrious collection of thirteen.

Sergio Ramos is unavailable for the game while Idrissa Gueye, Ander Herrera, Abdou Diallo and Neymar have all been named in the squad after recovering from their respective injuries with the team but may not be fit enough to start. Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Angel Di Maria are expected to start up front. Real Madrid on the other hand have their entire squad fit and available. The only doubt is if Karim Benzema and Ferland are fit enough to start. The holy trinity midfield of Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Casemiro is likely to start. Carlo Ancelotti might throw a curve ball by starting Fede Valverde on the right to try and press high.

PSG defenders don't like it when they are pressured and Valverde apart from being highly energetic is one of the best at pressing. If the Uruguayan does start he could be the trump card as he will also help Dani Carvajal to deal with Mbappe who is likely to operate from the left. It is a big game for Vinicius Jr who has been in very good form this season. This will be a very big test for him. It goes without saying that Real Madrid's midfield will be the key to this game. If the trio are at their A game then nothing can stop Real Madrid from winning this game apart from a certain Lionel Messi.

Messi hasn't had the best of starts to his PSG career. Although he has been good in patches, consistency is severely lacking. This could be the game where he announces himself to Parisians. Real Madrid is a familiar foe even though it has been a long time since he scored against them. Casemiro will be marking Lionel Messi like his shadow for the whole game. If Ferland Mendy does start he will also give the Argentine a tough time. Another battle to watch out for is Vinicius Jr against Achraf Hakimi which will be a very entertaining one to watch.

Both the teams are table toppers in their leagues but have had problems this season. A lot rides on this game as strong reports suggest that Kylian Mbappe will make his decision about joining Real Madrid official, if PSG get knocked out in this round. Things could get a little complicated if PSG win. Both the sides were knocked out of the semifinals last season and none would be keen on going out this early in the competition this time around.

Also read: Real Madrid and Barcelona draw while Atletico Madrid score late winner