No ‘magic formula’ to stop PSG’s Neymar, says Real Madrid’s Dani Carvajal

Neymar shapes as a huge threat to Real Madrid as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) prepare to visit the Santiago Bernabeu for the first leg of the UEFA Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday.

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal said there was no “magic formula” to stop Neymar as he hoped the Paris Saint-Germain star would have an off day.

(File pic) Real Madrid defenders, including Dani Carvajal (behind) have experienced the brunt of Neymar’s capabilities on the football field during the Brazilian’s stint with FC Barcelona. Neymar would be visiting the Santiago Bernabeu with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) this time around and the Madrid defence is already wary of the threat. (Getty Images)

Neymar shapes as a huge threat to Madrid as PSG prepare to visit the Santiago Bernabeu for the first leg of the Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday.

Carvajal, who is suspended for the opening clash, said his team simply needed to hope the Brazil international was below his best.

“To play against Neymar, there is no magic formula,” he said, via AS.

“You just hope he doesn’t have his day. I hope he doesn’t have his day on Wednesday.”

Having struggled in LaLiga this season, the Champions League is set to be Madrid’s last chance at another trophy this campaign.

Carvajal insisted there were no favourites for the tie against PSG, who are flying high in Ligue 1.

“There is no favourite in a battle like that. The knockout stages are very even, they are decided on little details,” he said.

“We will try to not commit any errors and to get it right in the area.”