Chelsea have been matched up with PSG in the Champions League Round of 16, and they now know what their potential path to a final in Budapest looks like.
The Blues will play the first leg away in Paris on March 11 or 12, before hosting PSG at Stamford Bridge the following week.
Facing PSG also means Chelsea avoid a meeting with Newcastle for now, as UEFA’s system has placed the Magpies on the opposite side of the draw.
Chelsea route towards the Champions League final after PSG clash
In contrast to previous editions of the tournament, Liam Rosenior’s side can now see every possible opponent they could face on their way to the final.
If they get past PSG, the Blues will take on either Galatasaray or Liverpool in the quarter-finals, with those two teams meeting in the Round of 16.
If Chelsea reach that stage, their semi-final opponent will come from Real Madrid, Manchester City, Bayern Munich or Atalanta. The first leg would likely be at Stamford Bridge, which some see as a slight disadvantage.
Then, if Liam Rosenior can lead the Blues to another victory, it will mark their fourth Champions League final appearance. This victory would also set up their first chance to face one of the tournament favourites, Arsenal, for the title.
A top-eight finish in the group stages was ultimately achieved by the Blues. However, this success was far from guaranteed, especially following Enzo Maresca’s departure on New Year’s Day.
While another spot in next season’s competition through league position is still possible, any further slip-ups domestically might leave winning it outright as their best route back into Europe’s elite tournament.
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