Here’s our series. The 5 good reasons to watch a match (with some adjustments here and there). We’ll be highlighting the most appealing aspects before each match with a mix of seriousness and humor. Please note, this isn’t meant to be an exhaustive overview. We continue here with the match between Paris Saint-Germain (2nd) and Athletic Bilbao (27th) this Wednesday at the San Mamés Stadium for Matchday 6 of the 2025-2026 Champions League (kick-off at 9 pm, CET).
5 – An unusual matchup.
In a Champions League where you can sometimes feel like you’re always facing the same teams, here’s an opponent Paris hasn’t encountered in a while. It was during the 2011-2012 season in the Europa League group stage. A different era, with some unpleasant memories.
First, a 2-0 defeat, then a 4-2 victory on the final matchday, which wasn’t enough to secure second place. This is an opportunity to rediscover the Basque club and, ideally, create better memories.
4 – Nuno Mendes is back.
It’s difficult to know if he’ll start, but the 23-year-old left-back is in the squad after a period of careful consideration. So it’s not impossible, and he’s a valuable addition. Especially since Lucas Hernandez is suspended. The Portuguese player has extraordinary qualities and significantly changes the team’s attacking potential.
3 – Désiré Doué is also back.
The 20-year-old midfielder/forward will almost certainly not start after his long muscle injury. However, it’s already excellent to see him back in action. We can hope for him to come on as a substitute, bringing all his talent to bear for the team. There are already some great things in this team, but Doué is undeniably a special weapon, and we’re delighted to see him back.
2 – Fully secure the playoff spot…
With 12 points, compared to 6 for 25th-placed Union Saint-Gilloise, the first team not to qualify for the playoffs, PSG has practically secured its place. But to avoid calculations, they must aim for a victory. This will guarantee their spot and even potentially secure a role among the seeded teams in the draw. It’s not the ultimate goal, but it’s a good step to take as quickly as possible.
On the other side, Bilbao is fighting to be among the top 24 and desperately needs points to avoid needing two wins, depending on the results of their rivals in the last two matchdays. This promises to be an intense match.
1 …and aim for the top 8.
For PSG, a victory would even solidify their place in the top 8. Ninth-placed Manchester City has 10 points. Things can still change very quickly. So, they mustn’t let up and must move forward as fast as possible. A win would allow for a certain degree of calm before facing Sporting Lisbon (January 20) and Newcastle (January 28).
