As the Champions League knockout playoffs intensify in the 2025/26 season, Paris Saint-Germain welcome Monaco to the Parc des Princes for the second leg on February 25. This tie holds high stakes, with PSG holding a 3-2 aggregate lead from the first leg, positioning them as favorites to advance to the last 16 for the 14th consecutive season. Monaco, sitting 21st in the league phase with 10 points, face an uphill battle; they need a win to progress, having failed to advance in their last three two-legged ties and last reaching the last 16 in 2016/17. Both teams are in the playoffs, with PSG at 11th on 14 points, underscoring the fine margins in Europe's premier competition.
Turning to recent form, Monaco showed resilience with a 3-2 victory over Lens, highlighting their ability to score and fight back. Specific details on PSG's last five results are unavailable, but their strong standing in the Champions League suggests they have maintained a level of consistency throughout the league phase.
Key players and injuries will play a pivotal role in this encounter. PSG are dealing with several absences, including Ousmane Dembélé, Senny Mayulu, Fabián Ruiz, and Quentin Ndjantou Mbitcha, all sidelined due to injuries. Despite these setbacks, watch for Désiré Doué, who netted a brace in the first leg, and Achraf Hakimi, who scored in that match, as they could influence the outcome. Monaco's situation is more precarious, with Paul Pogba, Mohammed Salisu, Takumi Minamino, Lukas Hradecky, Kassoum Ouattara, and Aleksandr Golovin out due to injuries or suspension. Eric Dier, Christian Mawissa, Maghnes Akliouche, and Krépin Diatta are doubtful or questionable, potentially disrupting their lineup. For Monaco, Folarin Balogun stands out after his brace in the first leg and goal against Lens, while Denis Zakaria and Ansu Fati impressed in their recent win.
Tactically, both sides bring intriguing elements based on expected lineups and head-to-head history. PSG are predicted to field a balanced side with Safonov in goal, a defensive line including Hakimi and Marquinhos, and a creative midfield of Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, and Neves, supporting attackers like Doué, Ramos, and Kvaratskhelia. Monaco might counter with Kohn in goal, a midfield anchored by Zakaria, and threats from Coulibaly, Fati, Adingra, and Balogun up front. In their last meeting on February 17, PSG secured a 3-2 win at Monaco, with Balogun scoring twice for the hosts, but Doué and Hakimi responding for PSG amid a red card to Golovin. Historically, PSG have been unbeaten in their last five meetings with Monaco in Paris, which could give them a psychological edge.
Looking ahead, PSG's aggregate lead and home advantage make them likely candidates to progress, but Monaco's recent fighting performances suggest they could mount a challenge. We're leaning towards a PSG victory, though the match's outcome could hinge on key moments, given the tight nature of knockout football.
Recommended Bets
PSG to win or draw @1.80 — With their aggregate lead and unbeaten record in recent Paris meetings, PSG are well-positioned to at least avoid defeat and advance.
Over 2.5 goals @2.00 — The first leg ended 3-2, and Monaco's recent 3-2 win indicates a pattern of high-scoring games between these sides.
Désiré Doué to score anytime @3.50 — Doué's brace in the first leg shows his current form, making him a strong candidate to find the net again.
Odds tend to shorten closer to kickoff — lock in value now.
