Paris Saint Germain vs Slovan Bratislava

None of the last 35 European Cup or Champions League holders have lost their opening home game of the following campaign, and there is little reason to expect that remarkable trend to end here. Paris Saint-Germain may have made a less convincing start domestically than expected, but the reigning European champions remain overwhelming favourites against Slovan. The visitors deserve enormous credit for navigating an impressive qualifying campaign, yet this represents a completely different level of opposition.

PSG have looked below their best in Ligue 1, but their Champions League pedigree and individual quality should give them a significant advantage. Slovan are also entering the contest with some concerns after suffering unexpected defeats domestically, and they simply do not possess the same depth or technical quality as the Parisians. Luis Enrique's side should be determined to respond to their indifferent domestic form by producing a statement performance in front of their home supporters.

The visitors are likely to focus on keeping the game compact and frustrating PSG for as long as possible. Slovan can attempt to slow the tempo, defend in numbers and make the atmosphere increasingly tense, but maintaining that approach for an entire 90 minutes at the Parc des Princes will be extremely difficult. PSG have too many technically gifted attackers capable of breaking down a stubborn defence, particularly once spaces begin to appear.

The Champions League has repeatedly provided PSG with the perfect stage to showcase their attacking quality, and this should be another occasion when they rise to the occasion. Slovan deserve praise for reaching this stage and should approach the game without fear, but the gulf in class should eventually become overwhelming.