A preview of the Ligue 1 match between Marseille and Paris Saint-Germain, highlighting team form, key players, and tactical setups. PSG is favored to win the match, based on overall squad strength and current form.
The highly anticipated Le Classique between Marseille and Paris Saint-Germain is set to ignite the Stade Velodrome this Sunday at 7:45 PM UK time. This Ligue 1 showdown pits Roberto De Zerbi's Marseille against Luis Enrique's Paris Saint-Germain in a clash of titans. The stakes are high, and the atmosphere promises to be electric as these two French giants lock horns.
Marseille, a powerhouse in French football, enjoyed a stellar campaign last season. Under the guidance of Roberto De Zerbi, Les Phoceens secured a commendable second-place finish in the Ligue 1 table during the 2024-25 season. Now, their sights are firmly set on clinching the coveted title of French champions.
However, Marseille's start to the new season has been somewhat underwhelming. Currently positioned seventh in the Ligue 1 standings, they have accumulated six points from four matches. This leaves them trailing third-placed AS Monaco by three points and league leaders Paris Saint-Germain by a significant six points. Marseille recognizes the need to elevate their performance and close the gap on their rivals.
Before the crucial encounter with PSG, Marseille faces a daunting challenge in the Champions League. They will travel to the Santiago Bernabeu to take on Real Madrid on Tuesday evening. Balancing their European aspirations with domestic ambitions will be a key test for De Zerbi's squad. In their most recent Ligue 1 fixture, Marseille delivered a resounding 4-0 victory over Lorient at home. This triumph followed a narrow 1-0 defeat to Lyon on the road, highlighting the team's inconsistency.
Looking ahead to the PSG clash, Marseille is expected to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation. Jeffrey de Lange is likely to be stationed in goal, shielded by a defensive line comprising Michael Murillo, Benjamin Pavard, Nayef Aguerd, and Facundo Medina. The central midfield roles will be occupied by Angel Gomes and Geoffrey Kondogbia, providing a shield for the defense and dictating the tempo of the game. In the attacking third, Mason Greenwood, Bilal Nadir, and Timothy Weah will be tasked with providing creativity and support for Amine Gouiri, who will spearhead the Marseille attack.
Paris Saint-Germain, a global footballing force, enjoyed unparalleled success last season. Under the astute management of Luis Enrique, PSG not only clinched the Ligue 1 title once again but also achieved the ultimate glory by winning the UEFA Champions League for the first time in their history. This historic triumph cemented their status as one of the world's elite clubs.
In the Champions League final, Luis Enrique's side showcased their dominance by dismantling Serie A club Inter Milan with a resounding 5-0 victory. PSG also reached the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup during the summer, but they were ultimately defeated 3-0 by Chelsea.
PSG has made a formidable start to the new Ligue 1 season, winning all four of their matches thus far. Their relentless pursuit of domestic dominance continues. Before the highly anticipated clash with Marseille, PSG will face Atalanta in the UEFA Champions League. In their most recent Ligue 1 outing, PSG secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over Lens. Prior to the two-week international break, PSG demonstrated their attacking prowess with a comprehensive 6-3 victory over Toulouse on the road.
For the match against Marseille, Paris Saint-Germain may be without the services of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The Georgian international winger sustained an injury during the recent Ligue 1 match against RC Lens and was forced to leave the field in the first half. Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue are also unavailable for selection. PSG is likely to deploy a 4-3-3 formation, with Lucas Chevalier starting in goal. The defensive quartet will consist of Achraf Hakimi, Illia Zabarnyi, Lucas Beraldo, and Lucas Hernandez. Warren Zaïre-Emery, Vintinha, and Lee Kang-in will form the midfield trio. Ibrahim Mbaye, Goncalo Ramos, and Bradley Barcola will lead the line in attack.
Key Factors to Consider:
- Marseille have scored 9 goals in 4 Ligue 1 games so far this campaign.
- Marseille have conceded 4 goals in 4 Ligue 1 games so far this campaign.
- Paris Saint-Germain have scored 10 goals in 4 Ligue 1 matches so far this season.
- Paris Saint-Germain have conceded 3 goals in 4 Ligue 1 matches so far this season.
- Joao Neves and Bradley Barcola have scored 3 goals each for Paris Saint-Germain so far this campaign.
In conclusion, while Marseille is a formidable team, Paris Saint-Germain possesses arguably the strongest squad in France. PSG should secure all three points from this Ligue 1 encounter. Our prediction is Paris Saint-Germain to win 3-1.
Best Odds: 11/1
Bookmaker: Zetbet