Real Madrid begin their Women’s Champions League campaign at the Alfredo Di Stéfano with Paris Saint-Germain providing an immediate test of their European ambition. Pau Quesada’s side reached the quarter-finals last season and want to go further this time, starting with a statement in Valdebebas.
Quick facts
- Real Madrid host PSG in matchday one of the Women’s Champions League.
- Pau Quesada has made four changes from the win over Valencia: Eva Navarro, Levels, Andreia and Linda come in.
- Athenea starts among the substitutes after returning from injury.
- PSG are led by captain Sakina Karchaoui, while former Madrid player Naomie Feller starts against her old club.
Madrid arrive with encouraging early-season form, their only slip having come against Eibar. Their victory over Valencia also brought a lift around the squad, with Athenea returning after injury and Schröder back from suspension; both made decisive scoring contributions.
Schröder is again the reference point in Quesada’s recognisable selection. Athenea must wait for her opportunity from the bench, despite the excitement around her return at the Di Stéfano.
The night also carries a reunion for Feller. The forward was a key figure when Real Madrid recorded their first victory over PSG last year, but returns to Valdebebas in Paris colours determined to disrupt the hosts’ continental opening.
Karchaoui wears the captain’s armband for a PSG side carrying considerable experience and attacking threat. Ajibade is another major danger for the visitors, whose lineup is built around established international names.
There were smiles and conversations as the players arrived, but the opening night of Europe quickly turns the mood serious. For Madrid, a strong start at home would give their campaign momentum; for PSG, taking a result from the Spanish capital would immediately reshape the group-stage week ahead.
