Paris Saint-Germain will be squaring off against FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 stage later this season. This humdinger of a tie will bring with it its own intriguing plots, connotations and nuances and will be one of the most anticipated Round of 16 duels in the history of the competition.
All eyes and ears will be focused on the main storyline featuring the long-awaited reunion – albeit with both this time on different teams – and the duel between the key protagonists, Neymar and Lionel Messi. The two emerged as one of the most dynamic duos in the history of the game during their four sizzling seasons together at the Catalan club. More so, there have been rumors swirling as of late that Messi could join PSG as soon as the next summer transfer window to usher in the next intriguing vista to embrace the beginning of his twilight years.
Yes, enchantment will be in the air as both gladiators who once fought alongside each other in inflicting fear into their toughest rivals will now be once again on the same pitch pitching all their skills and wizardry against the other. One cannot help but feel that both these ex comrades-in-arms will be again stirring each other to bring out their best to commandeer a win for their teams.
The sweet and short Twitter message Neymar posted to his bosom buddy Messi just hours after the draw was announced – “See you soon my friend” – speaks volumes. It hints at the unbridled joy and anticipation just waiting to burst forth from the Brazilian who had only recently proclaimed exuberantly, and not without a hint of defiance, that the two of them must play together again next season.
As rivals, the two have had numerous battles in their Argentina-Brazil duels, but this will be the first time that they will have face each other in the Champions League.
Let the games begin!