The key facts
- Safonov made the PSG starting lineup for the first time in a Champions League match against Barcelona
- Both teams have 6 points after two rounds and occupy first and second places
- The match is officiated by a refereeing team led by Englishman Michael Oliver
Safonov in the starting lineup against Barcelona
Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov made the starting lineup of Paris Saint-Germain for the match of the third round of the Champions League league phase against Barcelona. The match takes place on October 20 at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris, kickoff at 22:00 Moscow time. The place in the Parisians' goal was entrusted by head coach Luis Enrique.
Team lineups
Besides Safonov, Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Lucas Hernandez, Vitinha, Joao Neves, Fabian Ruiz, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue and Ousmane Dembele start for PSG. Barcelona's starting list includes goalkeeper Joan Garcia, defenders Joao Cancelo, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin and Havi Espart, midfielders Marc Bernal, Pedri and Dani Olmo, as well as Lamine Yamal, Anthony Gordon and Raphinha.
Tournament context
Both teams started the current Champions League campaign confidently: after two rounds PSG and Barcelona have collected six points each and occupy first and second places respectively. The Parisians come into the match as the reigning winners of the tournament. For Safonov, the match will be another opportunity to prove himself on the European stage — he will have to face the Catalans' attack, in which Lamine Yamal holds a special place.
Officiating and previous matches
The match will be officiated by a refereeing team led by Englishman Michael Oliver. Earlier, according to Life.ru, PSG beat Manchester City 4:2 in the Champions League — the match took place on October 14 in England, Safonov played all 90 minutes on the pitch and conceded two goals from Erling Haaland. It was also reported that the club named Safonov the best player of the match against Strasbourg.
