Under-fire PSG Faces Auxerre Test
Under-fire manager Luis Enrique will lead his Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) side to Auxerre for a Ligue 1 clash on Friday night. The match comes at a critical juncture for PSG, who dropped points against Nantes last weekend, following a Champions League defeat. This woeful result has intensified pressure on Enrique, as they were held at home by lowly Nantes despite dominating possession (84%, the highest in Ligue 1 in 17 years), accumulating 24 shots, and boasting an xG of 2.56. This is especially surprising considering PSG had previously won all seven games against bottom-half teams, scoring at least three goals each time.
Despite their stumble, PSG still hold a seven-point lead at the top of the table, remaining unbeaten in Ligue 1 this season. However, the context reveals Enrique's precarious position. With the Champions League looming, their upcoming game against Red Bull Salzburg might overshadow their league preparation.
Auxerre's Home Advantage
Auxerre, however, are not to be underestimated. While Christophe Pelissier's side suffered a 2-0 defeat at Toulouse, ending a five-game unbeaten run (13 points), their home form is exceptional. They’ve garnered 15 points from six home games this season—only PSG have more. Auxerre's position in the congested mid-table reflects their potential; they are just a point from the bottom half but only four points off the top four. They are aiming to emulate Lens and Brest who have unexpectedly claimed Champions League spots.
Their home advantage is undeniable, and Pelissier will aim to leverage it against PSG. However, his record against PSG is not favorable, with nine losses in 12 encounters, including both matches during Auxerre's relegation season in 2022-23. Their home win against PSG two seasons ago showcased Auxerre’s potential to challenge the giants of Ligue 1.
Injury Concerns for Both Sides
PSG will be without Senny Mayulu and Lucas Hernandez due to injuries, and Presnel Kimpembe's return remains uncertain. Goncalo Ramos, recently recovered from an ankle injury, started last weekend but failed to inspire a win. His minutes may be managed, especially with Randal Kolo Muani sidelined. Rotation is likely before the Salzburg trip, but Ousmane Dembele's suspension for the European match means he should feature against Auxerre. Auxerre also face injury worries, with Ange Loic N’Gatta, Ousoumane Camara, and Lasso Coulibaly likely out until the new year. Despite last week's goalless outing, Hamed Traore remains Auxerre's key player, with six Ligue 1 goals—only Bradley Barcola, Mason Greenwood and Jonathan David have more.
Tactical Battle and Key Players
Auxerre’s possible starting lineup includes: Leon; Hoever, Jubal, Osho, Akpa, Mensah; Owusu, Raveloson; Perrin, Sinayoko, Traore. PSG’s potential starting XI is: Safonov; Hakimi, Lucas Beraldo, Skriniar, Nuno Mendes; Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, Asensio; Dembele, Goncalo Ramos, Barcola. Despite their home advantage and excellent form, Auxerre faces a tough challenge against Ligue 1’s only unbeaten team. While Enrique might prioritize the Champions League, even a rotated PSG should have enough quality to overcome a tricky Auxerre side.
The game presents a significant test for Auxerre, highlighting how far they've come. For Pelissier, a victory would be a considerable accomplishment, given his poor record against PSG. Auxerre's Gideon Mensah, in an interview with Flashscore, expressed confidence, stating, “I'm very confident against PSG. I think most of the motivation I get from playing is from facing big teams.” He highlighted the importance of Auxerre’s home support and their recent improved performance, “Playing at home with the fans and the ambiance behind us always pushes us to do more. We barely have fear for any team that we play against at home.”
The Road to Victory: Predicting the Outcome
Considering PSG's league form, recent Champions League struggles, and Auxerre's impressive home record, a win for PSG is not guaranteed. Auxerre's strong home form, coupled with their recent successes against teams like Rennes and Brest, provides a basis for optimism. However, PSG's superior squad depth and the potential rotation of their team may ultimately prove decisive. Despite PSG's recent struggles, their superior squad depth and talent will likely give them the edge in this encounter. They have the individual quality to break down even a well-organized Auxerre defense. A victory for PSG remains the most likely outcome.
Auxerre's Mensah acknowledges the challenge ahead, “PSG haven’t lost in the league this season and it gives us the mentality of that we have nothing to lose and stand the chance to gain everything.” This illustrates Auxerre's determination to make the most of their home advantage and to strive for an improbable victory against the Ligue 1 leaders. The potential for an upset remains, but PSG's superior squad depth and the likelihood of rotation ahead of a crucial Champions League fixture ultimately point towards a Paris Saint-Germain victory.
The match promises a fascinating clash of styles and ambition. The final score may be closer than many expect. While PSG is favoured to win, Auxerre's determined approach and home advantage may make for a closely contested, potentially dramatic game. The final result remains to be seen. This match will give a good insight into the potential of both teams in the future.
