Here’s the latest: FIFA has confirmed that PSG defenders Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernández have each been handed two-match bans for “serious foul play” following their red cards in PSG’s quarterfinal win over Bayern Munich. Because of this, they are unavailable for both the upcoming semifinal and a potential final—dealing PSG a major blow in defence.
- Both were sent off in the same match: Pacho for a dangerous studs-up tackle on Leon Goretzka, and Hernández for a raised elbow to Raphael Guerreiro.
- This means PSG will face Real Madrid in the semifinal (this Wednesday, July 9) without these two key defenders—and should they win, they’d still miss the final on Sunday, July 13, at MetLife Stadium.
On the flip side, Real Madrid’s Dean Huijsen will miss only the semifinal (due to a separate red card), but will be eligible for the final if they make it that far.
In short:
- ✅ PSG’s defence impacted: No Pacho & no Hernández for both semi and final.
- ✅ Real Madrid less affected: One defender out for the semis; back for final.
- ✅ Chelsea stands to benefit if they reach the final—they’ll potentially face a weakened PSG squad.
Let me know if you’d like a breakdown of PSG’s available defenders or implications for tactics going forward!
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