PSG vs Real Madrid

Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are set for a high-profile preseason match. The European powers are each looking forward to successful campaigns, and the clash should provide an early measuring stick for both clubs.

The Blancos are coming off a second-place finish in La Liga behind rival Barcelona. Although they weren't able to defend their title, Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. already have their sights set on a return to the top under new manager and former PSG boss Carlo Ancelotti.

PSG captured the Ligue 1 crown with a dominant showing that saw the club finish 12 points clear of its nearest competition. The Parisians will look to build off that success to make a deeper run in the Champions League.

Although the outcome of preseason matches have very little long-term impact, the elite level of competition should help both clubs in their quest for top form. So let's check out all the key information for the match, followed by a preview and prediction.

After Real Madrid started their preseason slate with a predictable drubbing of Bournemouth, they received a much tougher challenge from Lyon. They fell behind 2-0 but were able to fight back to earn a draw—a positive sign this early in the preparation stage.

One interesting thing the Blancos have decided to do is work in most of their stars early. Big names like Cristiano Ronaldo, Angel Di Maria and Mesut Ozil have seen action right out of the gate as they seek top form before the season gets underway.

A lot of clubs tend to rotate players during the first part of the preseason. But the signs have been good with Real. A couple of solid results out of the gate helped build some confidence and chemistry heading into the match with PSG.

That said, some of the new additions and younger players have also got a chance to shine. Isco, Asier Illarramendi and Alvaro Morata are among the rising stars hoping to make a major impact for the Spanish club sooner rather than later.

These matches are the proving ground for those players. That's especially true when facing off with another elite side like Paris Saint-Germain. If they can capitalize on any chances they get on Saturday, it will bode well moving forward.

On the PSG side, the biggest news of the offseason, at least so far, came last week when the club signed forward Edinson Cavani from Napoli to a five-year deal. It adds another dynamic weapon to an already potent attacking group.

As it stands now, he's set to join Zlatan Ibrahimovic to create a terrific one-two punch for the Parisians. Getting them on the same page is one of the most important tasks between now and the start of the Ligue 1 season next month.

Assuming Cavani's transition is smooth, PSG are in great shape to repeat as champions and make a deep run in the Champions League. It's a talented roster led by superstar defender Thiago Silva and the various attacking options.

Ultimately, the match should feature plenty of chances on both ends as the clubs embrace the preseason atmosphere. It certainly won't be the same type of clash fans would witness in a Champions League knockout stage.

Whichever manager decides to give his stars more playing time will probably pick up the victory. Since Real Madrid have already been trending in that direction, they get a slight edge in what should be an exciting contest.