UCL Breakdown: Real Madrid and PSG

The UEFA Champions League returns with some huge fixtures in the Round of 16 and that means various top sides could be going home before the quarterfinals.

Since the draw was announced in December, all eyes have been on Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, and rightfully so.

The star power in the match is unparalleled with Karim Benzema, Vinicius Jr., Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Neymar all pressing to push their teams into the next round.

Then, there's the obvious subplot that's been looming for some time involving Mbappe and what his future might hold.

Many reports think that a deal to Madrid is already complete and that the Frenchman will be heading to the Santiago Bernabeu in June.

Today, we're taking a closer look at Real Madrid taking on PSG in the UEFA Champions League.

The two sides have met on six previous occasions in Champions League and Madrid has a decisive edge to this point.

Real have only lost once previously back in 2019, while they've beaten PSG three times and drawn twice.

Real Madrid

Los Blancos are 13-time champions in the competition, more than any club in the history of the Champions League.

PSG

The Parisians are yet to win the Champions League, but did reach the 2019-2020 final before falling to Bayern Munich.

Real Madrid

Karim Benzema - 5 goals

PSG

Lionel Messi - 5 goals

Kylian Mbappe - 5 goals

Real are the clear favorites given their steady form throughout the season, but it's impossible to dismiss PSG given their star-studded XI.

With Neymar expected to return, the Brazilian offers up a much-needed spark to help out Mbappe and Messi.

Defensively for PSG will be the major question that needs answering. Sergio Ramos is expected to miss out with an injury and that means the Parisians could be significantly exposed at the heart of their backline.

With Real's potent attack, led by the partnership of Vinicius and Benzema, PSG have to be cautious with how they approach the first leg.

PSG 1-1 Real Madrid