Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
Paris Saint-Germain's impressive form has already seen them knock Liverpool out of the Champions League with a 2:1 aggregate score, and it's no surprise the squad are seen as favourites against Aston Villa. With home advantage and a wealth of attacking options, the team are expected to aim for a convincing win.
Paris Saint-Germain
Since the international break, Paris Saint-Germain have cruised through their three domestic fixtures, asserting their dominance with ease. Across 270 minutes against Saint-Étienne (6:1), Dunkerque (4:2), and Angers (1:0), the team produced 6.49 xG. Ousmane Dembélé is enjoying a strong run of form—the former Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona winger has delivered 8 goals and 2 assists across his last 10 appearances for club and country. With the league title already secured—making them the first champions among Europe’s top five divisions—the squad can now fully concentrate on their Champions League ambitions.
Aston Villa
Aston Villa had the benefit of a favourable draw in the Round of 16, easing past Club Brugge with a 6:1 aggregate thanks to standout individual performances. But defensive vulnerabilities persist. In Saturday’s 2:1 win over Nottingham Forest, the team conceded 1.20 xGA and faced 19 shots—a troubling statistic ahead of a trip to Paris. Further issues lie in the poor form of their leading striker, who has just one goal in 10 Champions League appearances this season. Given the strength of Paris Saint-Germain’s defence, chances in the penalty area are likely to be scarce.
Paris Saint-Germain vs Aston Villa Prediction
The clear disparity in quality should make the difference, particularly with Paris Saint-Germain playing at home. Backing the hosts seems a justified call here—Unai Emery is unlikely to find success in a high-pressure clash against his former side.
