Why a Champions League playoff draw against Monaco is brilliant?

PSG were drawn against fellow Ligue 1 side Monaco in the Champions League playoff draw. The French champions will be disappointed to be in this position, as they looked poised to qualify for the last 16 in November. Luis Enrique's side should not write off their chances of winning the Champions League, as they found themselves in the playoff position last year before going on to become European champions. They were also paired up with a French team (Brest) in the playoff round last season. Here at PSG Post, we discuss why this matchup (against Monaco) is ideal for Luis Enrique's side.

Why facing Monaco in the Champions League Playoffs is ideal?

Les Parisiens are facing French opposition

PSG is facing Ligue 1 opposition, which has several benefits. Luis Enrique will know what to expect from the sides in his domestic league as he plays them every week. They play Marseille, Monaco, and Lille at least twice each season, so they will know what to expect if they meet in Europe. This played into their hands when they had to play Brest last season. They had won the first leg 0-3 before dismantling Eric Roy's side 7-0 at the Parc des Princes. Whilst Monaco will be much stronger opposition than Brest, the French champions will feel that they know what to do against teams in their own league.

They have not done that well this season against teams outside their league

In this season's Champions League, PSG has struggled to impose itself on the European teams such as Sporting Lisbon (2-1 defeat away), Newcastle United (1-1 draw at home), and Athletic Bilbao (0-0 draw away). The result against Eddie Howe's side (Newcastle United) was the most alarming one, as it was against a side that is struggling in their domestic league. To make matters worse, they needed a win to give themselves a chance of qualifying automatically for the knockout phase of the Champions League.

They owe Monaco a beating after the previous outing

PSG will be keen to get one over their Ligue 1 counterparts, Monaco, as the previous time they played, they had lost 1-0 at the Stade Louis II. The result is very disappointing as Monaco has struggled this season. They are currently 10th in the league, but are five points behind Lille, who are currently in the final Europa League position (fifth). To add insult to injury, they are 12 points behind Marseille and Lyon, who are third and fourth, respectively. The Monegasques need to improve their form in the league, or they risk missing out on the Champions League next season.