Liverpool is poised to claim the Premier League title after a significant 2-0 win over Newcastle United, shifting focus to the UEFA Champions League. They’ve prepared for a challenging last-16 matchup against Paris Saint-Germain, with the first leg on the road and the return at Anfield on March 11. PSG is in exceptional form, with ten consecutive wins, including notable victories over strong opponents. Emile Heskey highlights the threat posed by Ousmane Dembele, praising his underrated talent. Heskey predicts Liverpool will advance despite being underdogs, as they eye a chance to win three trophies this season.
With Liverpool poised to claim the Premier League title after a significant 2-0 victory against Newcastle United last week, focus now shifts to the UEFA Champions League. The Reds secured the top spot following an outstanding league phase and have been ‘rewarded’ with a last-16 matchup against Paris Saint-Germain.
Arne Slot’s team will play the first leg away on Wednesday, with the return leg set for Anfield on March 11th.
The French giants are in excellent form leading up to this encounter, with ten consecutive wins across all competitions and an unbeaten streak spanning 22 games. This impressive run includes a 4-2 triumph over Manchester City, a 4-1 win against Stuttgart, and dominating victories of 5-2 and 7-0 over Brest and Stade Briochin, respectively.
In light of this, former Liverpool striker Emile Heskey spoke exclusively to Anfield Index, expressing his optimism for the upcoming match while also noting a key threat…
PSG’s ‘Underrated’ Star
As expected from a team with such impressive scoring ability, PSG features an array of attacking talent. Recent January addition Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has joined stars like Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola, Goncalo Ramos, and Desire Doue in the offensive lineup.
However, it was former Barcelona forward Dembele who particularly caught Heskey’s attention.
“At the moment, he is absolutely excelling, and I’ve always held him in high regard,” Heskey remarked, “He doesn’t receive as much recognition as he deserves. He’s significantly underrated.”
“He’s capable of going either way, and I’m not convinced he even knows which foot he favors!” Heskey continued, “He’s very direct, and Liverpool will need to be on high alert to contain him.”
The 27-year-old forward has already netted 26 goals this season, including six in eight UEFA Champions League matches.
Heskey’s Prediction
“I believe Liverpool will handle this matchup well,” Heskey stated, “They’re full of confidence right now, and I don’t foresee many issues in this one.”
“The money spent by PSG’s owners gets discussed far more than their actual achievements, especially in Europe.”
“I have no doubt that Liverpool will advance to the next round, and even if they’re viewed as underdogs, they will give their opponents a tough contest.”
Currently, Liverpool is still in contention for three trophies by the season’s end. They hold a 13-point lead at the top of the Premier League and are also set to face Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley.
If they progress past the round of 16, they will face either Club Brugge or Aston Villa in the Quarter-Finals. Unai Emery’s squad has already clinched a 3-1 away victory in the first leg, making them strong contenders to reach the last eight.
