In the fourth round of France’s Ligue 1, Paris Saint-Germain will face Lens in a much-anticipated match. The game is set for Sunday, September 14, in Paris, with kick-off at 17:15 Central European Time. Here’s a look at the likely outcome and key betting options for this match.
Match Preview
The signings of Lucas Chevalier and Illya Zabarnyi stand out. Chevalier has been named the first-choice goalkeeper, while Ukrainian defender Zabarnyi is seen as a future leader, already having played two full matches for the team.
Despite injuries to Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué, PSG’s attack remains strong, led by João Neves, Bradley Barcola, and Vitinha, all capable of creating scoring opportunities from different positions.
PSG have already secured the UEFA Super Cup this season and have won all three of their Ligue 1 matches. Although they managed only one goal against both Nantes and Angers, they scored six against Toulouse, with Neves impressively netting two goals with bicycle kicks.
Lens had a rocky summer, losing key players El Aynaoui and Andy Diouf to Italy. Still, they have managed to make improvements without major signings.
With over ten new players, Lens did not spend more than eight million euros on any single one. The return of Florian Thauvin from Udinese is notable, as he has already scored since his return.
Under coach Pierre Sage, Lens employs fast counterattacks, high pressing, and active wing play, tactics that generate chances against top teams. However, they remain vulnerable on set pieces, though goalkeeper Robin Risser has often stepped up with reliable performances.
After losing narrowly to Lyon in their Ligue 1 opener, Lens rebounded with six points from two consecutive wins against Le Havre and Brest. Despite going behind to Brest early, Lens scored three goals in the final 30 minutes to claim a comeback victory.
Match Facts
- PSG have won their last six domestic matches.
- Lens have conceded in all three of their league games this season.
- Lens are unbeaten in their last four away matches.
- PSG average 2.2 goals per home game, while Lens score 1.4 goals per game away.
Probable Lineups
- Paris Saint-Germain: Chevalier, Hakimi, Paco, Marquinhos, Mendes, Vitinha, Ruiz, Neves, Barcola, Kvaratskhelia, Ramos.
- Lens: Risser, Udol, Sarr, Gradit, Machado, Aguilar, Samed, Thomasson, Said, Thauvin, Fofana.
Head-to-Head
- PSG are unbeaten in their last six matches against Lens.
- Lens have not won in Paris since 2006.
Prediction
Given both teams’ current forms, expect PSG to dominate the attacking game, though Lens could create counterattack opportunities. With options available due to injuries, PSG is likely to secure a win while Lens may struggle defensively. My prediction: a home win for PSG and under 4.5 total goals in the match.