On Thursday, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) faces arch-rival Marseille in the Trophee des Champions at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium in Kuwait. This marks their first meeting for the trophy since 2020. PSG, the reigning Ligue 1 and Coupe de France champions, will aim to defend their title, having beaten Monaco 1-0 in last year’s final.
Match Preview: PSG vs Marseille
This encounter serves as a chance for PSG to secure their second trophy of the season. Under manager Luis Enrique, they are currently on a five-match unbeaten streak, including a recent victory against Paris FC, which ended 2-1. Historically, PSG excels in this competition, having won 11 out of their last 12 finals.
Notably, PSG has not conceded a goal in their last three appearances for this trophy, winning those matches 7-0 combined. Their last outing on Asian soil was successful as well, where they claimed the Intercontinental Cup with a 2-1 extra-time win over Flamengo.
PSG’s Recent Form
- Five-match unbeaten run.
- Victories over Marseille, including a 2-1 win in Lens for the Trophee des Champions in 2021.
Marseille’s Current Situation
Marseille comes into this match needing a turnaround, especially after a 2-0 defeat to Nantes and falling behind league leaders Lens by eight points. Manager Roberto De Zerbi aims for his first trophy with the club. Marseille has two wins out of three finals in this century, the last being against Lille in 2011.
Marseille’s Recent Performance
- Recent two-match winning streak away from home.
- Scored nine goals across those matches.
- Can win consecutive matches against PSG for the first time since 2011.
Team News: Key Players and Lineups
PSG will miss several players due to injuries, including Achraf Hakimi, who is participating in the Africa Cup of Nations. Matvey Safonov is out with a hand injury, and Lee Kang-in’s participation is uncertain due to a thigh strain. During their last match, Desire Doue and Ousmane Dembele scored to secure a victory.
Marseille’s Ruben Blanco is questionable due to a knee injury. However, Amine Gouiri has made a return from injury, providing a boost to the squad ahead of this critical match.
Possible Lineups
| Paris Saint-Germain | Marseille |
|---|---|
| Chevalier | Rulli |
| Zaire-Emery | Pavard |
| Marquinhos | Balerdi |
| Pacho | Aguerd |
| Hernandez | Weah |
| Neves | O’Riley |
| Vitinha | Nadir |
| Ruiz | Palmieri |
| Ramos | Greenwood |
| Dembele | Paixao |
| Barcola | Aubameyang |
The matchup is anticipated to be competitive, with PSG looking to leverage their experience and strong form against a recovering Marseille side. The outcome could significantly impact the morale of both clubs as they gear up for the remainder of the season.
