Chelsea advanced to the FA Cup quarter-finals with a 4-2 extra-time victory over Wrexham, boosting morale ahead of their Champions League last-16 first leg against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday. Alejandro Garnacho, who scored in the cup win, expressed confidence in the squad's ability to compete for European glory. PSG, meanwhile, are addressing defensive and midfield issues following a recent Ligue 1 defeat.
Chelsea's progression in the FA Cup came after a hard-fought match against Wrexham on Saturday. The Blues, managed by Liam Rosenior, made nine changes to their lineup but still needed extra time to secure a 4-2 win. Wrexham took the lead through Sam Smith, only for Arthur Okonkwo to score an own goal to level at half-time. Callum Doyle restored Wrexham's advantage in the 78th minute, but Josh Acheampong equalized again. George Dobson's sending-off shifted momentum, allowing Garnacho to score the third goal and Joao Pedro to add the fourth in extra time. Wrexham had a goal disallowed for offside at 3-2.
Garnacho, formerly of Manchester United, was pivotal and commented on the squad's depth: "In football you need a full squad to win trophies because we play every three days. You have to trust in everyone, and we have great players." He added, "It’s an incredible win. I think it was one of our hardest games of the season so far." Pedro's goal marked his 18th of the season, earning praise from Alan Shearer for his attributes. Pedro has previously scored against PSG.
The focus now shifts to the Champions League clash at Parc des Princes. Chelsea and PSG have met nine times previously, with three wins each and three draws, per Transfermarkt. Chelsea won the most recent encounter 3-0 in last summer's Club World Cup final. PSG suffered a 3-1 home Ligue 1 loss to AS Monaco over the weekend, their first home defeat of the season. Luis Enrique highlighted a mental "disconnect" in the team and noted issues like defensive vulnerabilities, with Marquinhos in a reduced role and injuries to Fabian Ruiz and Joao Neves. PSG also struggled with finishing amid injuries to players including Ousmane Dembélé.
Chelsea aim to leverage their form, while PSG seek to capitalize on home advantage.
