- Real Madrid are set to meet Paris Saint-Germain in Champions League last-16
- David Beckham, who played for both teams, predicts an ‘incredible’ contest
- Real are currently 19 points off leaders Barcelona, are focusing on Europe
- PSG are 11 points clear in Ligue 1 but want to make a statement on continent
David Beckham believes Cristiano Ronaldo will reserve his peak form for Real Madrid’s upcoming Champions League blockbuster with Paris Saint-Germain.
The former Real player acknowledges it will be a tricky last-16 assignment for the reigning European champions against the in-form Parisians, but believes they will turn it on in Europe as they have done so often in recent years.
Real have won the Champions League for the last two seasons and will once again pin their hopes on the competition given they trail rivals Barcelona by 19 points in the La Liga table.
David Beckham believes Cristiano Ronaldo will shine when Real Madrid take on Paris Saint-Germain in the last-16 of the Champions League next week
Ronaldo has endured a mixed season but has reserved his best form for European games
Beckham, formerly of Real and PSG, has backed Ronaldo to step up to the mark against Paris
Beckham, who also spent time at PSG during his glittering career, told Marca: ‘It is going to be difficult with PSG on top form at the moment.
‘This is the moment for Los Blancos as they love this competition. Looks at the players that they have like Cristiano.
‘It is in these moments that the top players come to the fore and the game is going to be incredible to watch.’
Ronaldo has certainly reserved his most sparkling form for European competition this season, scoring nine goals in the six group stage matches as opposed to just eight in 17 league outings so far.
Ronaldo in action during Real’s frustrating 2-2 draw with Levante at the weekend
Neymar celebrates after scoring in PSG’s win over Lille at the weekend
PSG currently lead the way in Ligue 1 by 11 points thanks to the form of Neymar, Edinson Cavani and Kylian Mbappe, setting up the first leg of the last-16 tie on February 14 perfectly.
Beckham will have split loyalties and refused to pick a side: ‘It is very difficult to choose as I like both clubs and they have a lot of passion.
‘I had four great years at Madrid, I was not so long at PSG but obviously winning the league was great. I love the club, the people and the fans are incredible, and I say the same about Real Madrid.’
