On Friday, Paris FC will host Lorient at Stade Jean-Bouin for a Ligue 1 clash between two newly promoted teams. Both clubs have accumulated seven points after their first six matches of the season. Paris FC recently drew 1-1 with Nice, while Lorient celebrated a surprising 3-1 victory against Monaco.
Match Preview
Paris FC managed to earn a point against Nice, moving them to 11th place in the league table. They have displayed resilience, gathering four points after conceding the first goal in their last six league games. Notably, they have scored three late goals in this competition, all within the final ten minutes. Additionally, they have allowed only one opening-half goal in their last three domestic matches.
A defeat on Friday could mark Paris FC’s longest home losing streak since March-April 2023. Historically, they have performed well at home, winning nine consecutive matches when they score first during their previous Ligue 2 campaign. Furthermore, Paris has never lost a home game against Lorient, securing a narrow 3-2 win the last time they met in Ligue 2.
On the other hand, Lorient’s success this season has been significantly influenced by having a numerical advantage in matches. Six of their seven points have come when they were ahead by a player or two. However, they have struggled on the road, managing only one point from three away games and being outscored 6-1 in those fixtures.
Lorient has not faced defeat in Ligue 1 when scoring multiple goals in a match since December 2023. They aim to maintain their current momentum, having earned points in their last two league games.
Team News
Paris FC will be without players Pierre-Yves Hamel, Lohann Doucet, and Vincent Marchetti due to various injuries. However, Jean-Philippe Krasso, who recently came on as a substitute against Nice, scored the equalizer from the penalty spot and will be a key player to watch.
Lorient’s squad has seen some injury concerns, with Bandiougou Fadiga, Trevan Sanusi, and Nathaniel Adjei missing the last match due to ankle injuries. Although Darlin Yongwa returns from suspension, the team will rely on Mohamed Bamba, who performed well against Monaco, scoring the opener, along with Pablo Pagis, who netted twice.
Possible Lineups
- Paris FC: Nkambadio; Traore, Mbow, Otavio, De Smet; M. Lopez, Lees-Melou, Camara; Kebbal, Geubbels, Simon
- Lorient: Mvogo; Meite, Talbi, Faye; Le Bris, Avom, Abergel, Kouassi; Dermane, Aiyegun; Soumano
Prediction
Experts predict that Paris FC will come out on top, with a scoreline of 3-1 against Lorient. The dynamic attack of Paris FC is expected to exploit Lorient’s defensive vulnerabilities away from home.
