VfB Stuttgart vs. PSG – The highly anticipated UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash between VfB Stuttgart and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is set to take place on January 29, 2025. With Stuttgart enjoying a strong domestic campaign and PSG boasting world-class talent, this match promises excitement and drama. This in-depth preview covers key match details, predicted lineups, tactical analysis, and expert predictions.
Match Details
- Date: January 29, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 20:00 CET / 19:00 GMT / 14:00 EST
- Venue: MHPArena, Stuttgart, Germany
- Competition: UEFA Champions League (Round of 16)
- Broadcast: CBS Sports, BT Sport, DAZN
Team Form & Recent Performances
VfB Stuttgart
Stuttgart has been one of the surprise teams of the Bundesliga season, currently competing for a top-four finish. Under Sebastian Hoeneß, they have developed a balanced approach, blending defensive resilience with swift counterattacks.
- Last 5 Matches (All Competitions): W-W-D-L-W
- Key Strengths: Disciplined defense, counterattacks, home advantage
- Potential Weaknesses: Inexperience in high-stakes European matches
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
PSG, under Luis Enrique, continues to dominate French football and is one of the favorites for the Champions League title. Their squad depth and attacking firepower make them formidable opponents.
- Last 5 Matches (All Competitions): W-W-D-W-W
- Key Strengths: Possession control, world-class attack, tactical flexibility
- Potential Weaknesses: Defensive vulnerabilities, occasional lapses in focus
Head-to-Head Record
This will be the first competitive meeting between VfB Stuttgart and PSG. While PSG has a strong record against Bundesliga sides, Stuttgart will be eager to prove themselves on the European stage.
- Stuttgart vs. French Teams: 10 Matches – 4 Wins, 3 Draws, 3 Losses
- PSG vs. German Teams: 15 Matches – 10 Wins, 2 Draws, 3 Losses
Predicted Lineups
VfB Stuttgart (4-3-3)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Alexander Nübel |
| Right Back | Josha Vagnoman |
| Center Back | Waldemar Anton |
| Center Back | Hiroki Ito |
| Left Back | Maximilian Mittelstädt |
| Midfielder | Atakan Karazor |
| Midfielder | Angelo Stiller |
| Midfielder | Enzo Millot |
| Right Wing | Chris Führich |
| Striker | Serhou Guirassy |
| Left Wing | Silas Katompa Mvumpa |
Paris Saint-Germain (4-2-3-1)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Gianluigi Donnarumma |
| Right Back | Achraf Hakimi |
| Center Back | Marquinhos |
| Center Back | Milan Škriniar |
| Left Back | Nuno Mendes |
| Defensive Midfielder | Manuel Ugarte |
| Defensive Midfielder | Vitinha |
| Right Wing | Ousmane Dembélé |
| Attacking Midfielder | Kang-In Lee |
| Left Wing | Kylian Mbappé |
| Striker | Gonçalo Ramos |
Key Battles to Watch
1. Kylian Mbappé vs. Waldemar Anton
Mbappé’s speed and dribbling ability will test Stuttgart’s defense. Anton must stay composed and avoid being drawn out of position.
2. Chris Führich vs. Achraf Hakimi
Führich has been Stuttgart’s creative spark, but Hakimi’s attacking prowess will force him to track back defensively.
3. Serhou Guirassy vs. Marquinhos
Guirassy’s finishing ability will be crucial for Stuttgart. Marquinhos, PSG’s defensive leader, will look to neutralize his threat.
Tactical Analysis
VfB Stuttgart’s Approach
- Stuttgart is expected to press high and capitalize on PSG’s defensive lapses.
- Quick transitions through Führich and Silas will be their primary strategy.
- Maintaining a compact midfield is crucial to limit PSG’s passing options.
PSG’s Game Plan
- Expect PSG to dominate possession, using Dembélé and Mbappé to stretch Stuttgart’s backline.
- Midfield control will be key, with Vitinha dictating the tempo.
- Defensive discipline will be crucial to avoid Stuttgart’s counterattacks.
Match Prediction & Betting Tips
Score Prediction:
- VfB Stuttgart 1-3 PSG
Betting Tips:
✅ Both Teams to Score – Yes (Stuttgart’s attack can trouble PSG’s defense)
✅ Over 2.5 Goals (Both teams favor attacking football)
✅ Mbappé to Score Anytime (He is PSG’s main goal threat)
Conclusion
This UEFA Champions League fixture between VfB Stuttgart and PSG promises to be an exciting battle. While Stuttgart has the potential to challenge, PSG’s experience and firepower make them favorites to progress.
Stay tuned for live updates and post-match analysis!