Barcelona targets semifinals against Mbappe’s PSG; Dortmund vs. Simeone’s Atletico

The upcoming Champions League quarterfinal second legs are set to ignite excitement as Barcelona clashes with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at Camp Nou this Tuesday, April 16. This crucial match could define the season for both clubs, with Barcelona aiming to claim their first Champions League title since 2015, and PSG still seeking their inaugural win. The same evening, Atletico Madrid will take on Borussia Dortmund at Signal Iduna Park, with the outcome of their first leg leaving the tie wide open.

Barcelona, five-time champions, hold a 3-2 lead from the first leg in Paris, stepping into the semis for the first time since 2019. Pedri, returning to form, played a pivotal role last week, contributing a goal and an assist. PSG, with Kylian Mbappe potentially in his final season at the club, face a tough challenge as they need a win to advance. Having reached the finals in 2020 only to be bested by Bayern Munich, PSG is also poised to win the French Ligue 1 and is eager to add a Champions League title to secure a double this season.

Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund hosts Atletico Madrid in front of a full house at Signal Iduna Park. Despite trailing 1-2, Dortmund’s enthusiastic support from 80,000 fans could provide the boost they need. Dortmund, who last won the competition in 1997 and made their most recent final appearance in 2013, faces a determined Atletico Madrid, who have finished as runners-up three times—in 1974, 2014, and 2016. For Diego Simeone, securing a Champions League title remains a coveted achievement, as it’s the only major trophy missing from his collection during his 14 years with Atletico Madrid.