Holders and Spanish league leaders Barcelona will slug it out with Premier League leaders Arsenal in the last 16 of the Champions League, 10 years after the sides faced each other in the final, following Monday’s draw for the first knockout stage.
Spanish league leaders Barcelona, chasing a sixth title, got the victory 2-1 in the 2006 final at the Stade de France in Paris and also triumphed in the knockout phase in 2010 and 2011.
Chelsea, who are enduring a torrid time in the Premier League, will face French league leaders Paris St Germain in the knockout stages for the third year in succession after the French champions triumphed at the same stage last season and the London club had the upper hand in the quarterfinals the previous year.
Another clash between big guns will feature former winners Juventus and Bayern Munich, while 10-time champions Real Madrid were drawn against AS Roma.
It is the game between the pacesetters in Spain and Arsenal which most catches the eye, however.
“We are certain to see a sporting spectacular,” said Barca director Albert Soler.
“Arsenal and Barcelona have a similar style of play. The fans will enjoy themselves, we’re two sides with a similar understanding of the game. They will be two great matches. We must have maximum respect for Arsenal.”
“Barca are used to playing under pressure in every sense. But we are the reigning champions and that gives you an edge.”
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