PSG takes on Barcelona in Champions League highlight despite French protests

Paris Saint-Germain faces Barcelona in a Champions League match, amidst a backdrop of civil unrest in France. Both teams are currently at the top of the standings, although Liverpool or Stuttgart might claim the top spot after Tuesday's games. The match, which requires a significant security presence, occurs in a different context than when PSG defeated Manchester City 4-2 away last week.

The protests in France, initially focused on school conditions, have evolved to encompass a broader range of grievances. These have led to violent confrontations, fires, and looting across the country. On Monday, government officials convened an emergency meeting to discuss the potential cancellation of football matches and other major events due to the unrest. Despite these concerns, PSG-Barcelona and other soccer games in European competitions were deemed safe to proceed.

Liverpool could top the table with a victory over Villarreal, depending on the outcome between PSG and Barcelona, or based on goal difference if Andoni Iraola's team secures a win. Stuttgart has secured both of its games so far, but Atletico Madrid poses a greater challenge for the German team. Meanwhile, Manchester City looks to regain momentum against AEK Athens, while Napoli aims for its first point against Bodø/Glimt in Norway.

Roma faces Slovan Bratislava, Borussia Dortmund heads to Azerbaijan to take on Sabah, Porto hosts PSV Eindhoven, and Fenerbahce contends with Slavia Prague.