Here’s our series. The 5 good reasons to watch a match (with some adjustments here and there). We’ll revisit the compelling 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 and AS Monaco this Wednesday at the Parc des Princes in the second leg of the 2025-2026 Champions League playoffs (2-3 in the first leg) (kick-off at 9 pm, CET).
5 – Zaïre-Emery Unstoppable.
Warren Zaïre-Emery, the 19-year-old midfielder who briefly filled in at right-back (during Achraf Hakimi’s injury and then the Africa Cup of Nations), is on an impressive run of 30 consecutive starts in all competitions for PSG. This is due to his exceptional physical condition, but also to some truly strong performances. The young Parisian is even improving his ball control. He’ll need a break eventually, but we expect to see him start again. It’s enough to remind everyone of his nickname, “the robot,” given to him by his teammates.
4 – Lee Kang-In as a surprise contender?
Lee Kang-In has been very impressive as a substitute lately, and the 25-year-old midfielder/forward didn’t disappoint as a starter last Saturday against Metz. Could he break into the starting lineup for the Champions League? It hasn’t happened yet this season, so it would be a great achievement for him. However, picking the right starter isn’t easy.
3 – Achraf Hakimi is gaining momentum.
It shouldn’t be Achraf Hakimi, the 27-year-old right-back, who seems to be on the right track. He appears increasingly confident and incisive in his play. This makes us eager to see what’s next, as he could be a real asset for PSG. He possesses undeniable qualities and brings a certain unpredictability to this fluid Parisian side. We hope for confirmation tonight
2 – Another crazy match?
Monaco leading 2-0 in 20 minutes, PSG missing a penalty, the comeback, Aleksandr Golovin’s red card early in the second half, Monaco’s resistance afterwards… The first leg was full of memorable moments. Perhaps the return leg could also have its share of madness. Although we’d rather avoid the idea of a comeback. Perhaps PSG could be particularly clinical. That would already be madness, wouldn’t it?
1 – Qualification for the Round of 16, with a very strong opponent.
Regardless of who qualifies, they already know they’ll be facing a major European name and that this time they’ll be venturing beyond their own borders: FC Barcelona or Chelsea. Nothing easy, but a real taste of European football. It’s a significant milestone. A dream for Monaco, almost an obligation for PSG.
He also reportedly has scores to settle, regardless of the draw (which will take place this Friday). There’s a certain rivalry with Barça and a 3-0 Club World Cup final defeat against Chelsea that he wants to put behind him.
