Paris FC is set to face Marseille in a crucial Ligue 1 matchup this Saturday at Stade Sebastien Charlety. The Parisian team currently holds a six-point cushion above the relegation playoff zone. They recently secured a draw against Angers, ending the match 0-0. On the other hand, Marseille is enjoying a strong season, positioned third after their decisive 3-1 victory over Lens.
Match Preview: Paris FC vs Marseille
As the holiday season approaches, Paris FC has focused on improving its defensive strength. In their recent outings, they have posted two clean sheets in the last three matches. The team aims to extend their unbeaten streak in the league to three games, which would mark their best run in this campaign.
Despite the positive signs, Paris FC struggles at home. They have not won in their past six league matches on their ground. The team has drawn twice in this stretch but has failed to score in two consecutive home games. If they do not find the net this weekend, it would mark a three-match scoring drought, a first in over a decade.
This match will be significant as it will be the first home encounter against Marseille in Ligue 1 since 1978. Paris FC seeks to end a 45-year winless streak against the rival, their last victory being a 2-1 win in 1978.
Marseille’s Recent Form
Marseille’s season has shown a stark contrast between their domestic performances and European outings. While they have secured two successive wins in Ligue 1 by an impressive aggregate of 8-3, they experienced a disappointing exit from the UEFA Champions League. A heavy 3-0 defeat to Club Brugge sealed their fate, limiting their prospects to domestic competitions.
Heading into this match, Marseille trails league leaders Paris Saint-Germain by seven points. A victory would equal their longest winning streak for away games this season, having found success in their last two matches outside Stade Velodrome.
Team News
Injury concerns plague Paris FC, with midfielder Pierre Lees-Melou likely unavailable due to a shin injury. Additionally, Pierre-Yves Hamel is doubtful with a calf strain. Kevin Trapp has been a reliable presence in goal, earning his second clean sheet against Angers.
Marseille also has injury concerns, with Emerson Palmieri questionable due to a leg issue. Meanwhile, Geoffrey Kondogbia’s status remains uncertain. However, Amine Gouiri has been a key player, netting three goals in his last two league matches, including a brace against Lens.
Predicted Lineups
- Paris FC: Trapp; Traore, Mbow, Kolodziejczak, Otavio, Sangui; Kebbal, Munetsi, Camara, Gory; Krasso
- Marseille: Rulli; Balerdi, Aguerd, Medina; Weah, Hojbjerg, O’Riley, Paixao; Nwaneri, Greenwood; Gouiri
Conclusion
In summary, while Paris FC shows signs of improvement, their home struggles pose a significant challenge. With Marseille hitting their stride, experts predict a strong performance from the visitors. The expectation is a final score of Paris FC 1, Marseille 3.
