UEFA Champions League: Brest vs PSG Preview - February 11, 2025

UEFA Champions League: Brest vs PSG Preview - February 11, 2025


The UEFA Champions League returns with an intriguing clash between Brest and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. This match marks a historic moment for Brest as they face off against one of Europe’s footballing giants in the knockout stage of the tournament. PSG, led by their star-studded squad, will aim to assert their dominance, while Brest will look to pull off a major upset.

 

Event Details

  • Fixture: Brest vs Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
  • Date: Tuesday, February 11, 2025
  • Kick-Off Time: 21:00 CET / 20:00 GMT / 15:00 ET
  • Venue: Stade Francis-Le Blé, Brest, France
  • Broadcast & Live Stream:
    • UK: BT Sport, TNT Sports
    • US: CBS Sports, Paramount+
    • France: Canal+
    • Worldwide: Available via official UEFA broadcast partners and live-streaming services

 

Team News

Brest

Brest have had a remarkable season, defying expectations to secure a place in the Champions League knockout rounds. Managed by Éric Roy, the team has shown great resilience and defensive solidity, making them a tricky opponent even for Europe’s elite clubs.

  • Injuries/Suspensions:
    • Romain Del Castillo: Doubtful with a minor muscle injury.
    • Marco Bizot: The first-choice goalkeeper faces a late fitness test.
    • Mahdi Camara: Suspended due to accumulated yellow cards.
  • Key Players:
    • Jérémy Le Douaron: A versatile attacker capable of causing problems in PSG’s defense.
    • Pierre Lees-Melou: The experienced midfielder orchestrates Brest’s play.
    • Steve Mounié: A physical presence in the attack, dangerous on set-pieces.




Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)

PSG, under Luis Enrique, have been in excellent form, with their eyes set on finally clinching the elusive UEFA Champions League title. With their world-class squad, they enter this fixture as heavy favorites.

  • Injuries/Suspensions:
    • Presnel Kimpembe: Still recovering from a long-term injury.
    • Achraf Hakimi: Suspended for this fixture.
    • Warren Zaïre-Emery: Doubtful due to a minor ankle issue.
  • Key Players:
    • Kylian Mbappé: The star forward will be PSG’s biggest attacking threat.
    • Ousmane Dembélé: Provides pace and creativity on the wings.
    • Marquinhos: The captain anchors the defense with his leadership and experience.

 

Possible Lineups

Brest (4-4-2):

  • Goalkeeper: Marco Bizot
  • Defenders: Kenny Lala, Lilian Brassier, Brendan Chardonnet, Bradley Locko
  • Midfielders: Jérémy Le Douaron, Pierre Lees-Melou, Jonas Martin, Franck Honorat
  • Forwards: Steve Mounié, Romain Del Castillo

PSG (4-3-3):

  • Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma
  • Defenders: Nordi Mukiele, Marquinhos, Milan Škriniar, Nuno Mendes
  • Midfielders: Manuel Ugarte, Vitinha, Fabián Ruiz
  • Forwards: Ousmane Dembélé, Kylian Mbappé, Gonçalo Ramos

 

Playing Ground: Stade Francis-Le Blé

Stade Francis-Le Blé, home to Brest, has a capacity of approximately 15,000 spectators. While not the largest stadium in Europe, its intimate atmosphere and passionate home fans create a formidable setting for visiting teams. Brest will rely on their supporters to boost morale against PSG.

 

Head-to-Head Record

  • Total Matches: 25
  • PSG Wins: 21
  • Brest Wins: 0
  • Draws: 4

Historically, PSG have dominated this fixture, with Brest yet to secure a single victory against the Parisians. Their last meeting in Ligue 1 saw PSG win 3-1, with goals from Mbappé and Dembélé.

 

Match Preview

Brest’s Tactical Approach

Brest will likely adopt a defensive approach, aiming to frustrate PSG with a deep-lying block. They will look to capitalize on counterattacks and set-pieces, areas where they have been effective this season. If they can remain disciplined in defense, they could pose a challenge for the visitors.

PSG’s Strategy

PSG will control possession and look to break down Brest’s defensive lines with quick passing and movement. Kylian Mbappé’s pace and dribbling ability will be crucial, while Vitinha and Fabián Ruiz will look to dominate the midfield.

 

Key Battles

  1. Pierre Lees-Melou vs. Manuel Ugarte: A midfield battle that could dictate the tempo of the game.
  2. Kylian Mbappé vs. Lilian Brassier: Can Brest’s defense contain the lethal forward?
  3. Steve Mounié vs. Marquinhos: A physical duel between Brest’s striker and PSG’s captain.

 

Betting Odds & Predictions

  • PSG Win: 1/5
  • Brest Win: 12/1
  • Draw: 6/1

While PSG are heavy favorites, Brest’s defensive resilience could make things difficult. A 3-0 victory for PSG seems the most probable outcome.

 

How to Watch

United Kingdom:

  • BT Sport
  • TNT Sports

United States:

  • CBS Sports
  • Paramount+

France:

  • Canal+
  • beIN Sports

Global:

  • Check official UEFA Champions League broadcasters in your region.

 

Conclusion

Brest vs. PSG is a true David vs. Goliath encounter, with the home side looking to stun the Champions League contenders. While Brest will put up a fight, PSG’s quality and experience should see them through comfortably. Expect an entertaining match as both sides battle for a place in the next round!