The Champions League already on everyone’s minds in Paris? In any case, in that of Luis Enrique, yes. His starting line-up left little doubt on this subject… The players who played on the field had their minds completely turned towards Lille. Despite a large turnover, PSG B defeated Lille (3-1) this Saturday, during the 21st day of Ligue 1. A victory which allows the Rouge et Bleu to consolidate their leading position in the standings and above all to gain maximum confidence before facing Real Sociedad on Wednesday (9 p.m.) in the round of 16 first leg of the Champions League. Gonçalo Ramos, Alexsandro against his side and Randal Kolo Muani shook the opposing nets, after Yusuf Yazici opened the scoring for Lille at the very start of the match.
Surprises in the starting lineups therefore, particularly on the Parisian side, with Donnarumma, Marquinhos, Hakimi, Barcola, Zaire-Emery and even Vitinha replacements, not to mention Mbappé, after his big scare against Brest (3-1). On the Lille side, David started on the bench. The Canadian was in the front row to witness his team’s big start to the match, rewarded by this foxy goal from Yazici, after Santos’ breakthrough on the side (0-1, 5th). Beraldo not white-blue at the start, Ruiz light on the restart. Not as much as Alexsandro, trapped like a beginner by Dembélé. Caviar for Ramos (1-1, 10th). Great intensity, a lot of desire on both sides, especially in Paris. Success as a bonus, with this strong cross from Ruiz extended into his goal by Alexsandro (2-1, 17th). The Parisian dry cleaner? Impressive. The people of Lille were suffocated. Still rhythm thereafter but few chances for a long time, until this saving save from Chevalier in front of Asensio, served behind by Dembélé who had changed sides (2-1 MT).
Paris pushed for a resumption, while the Ultras let their anger towards Anne Hidalgo speak in the stands. Several hot actions, including Mukiele who came up against Chevalier (55th). Surprisingly discreet, Lille playmaker Zeghrova delivered his first shot of the match (58th). The last one too. The two coaches were tapping on their benches, which helped to slow down the pace. Chevalier, for his part, tried to keep the suspense going, with two magnificent interventions in front of Kolo Muani (73rd, 75th), the latter regaining a little confidence at the end of the game.
So much so that it was he who scored the break goal, having only to push after this rush from Barcola on the left (3-1, 80th). Logical and cruel at the same time, knowing that Yazici struck twice in quick succession at the entrance to the area after a festival from Ounas just before (78th). Barcola was close to increasing the gap (85th), but Chevalier was still watching. The Lille newcomers brought depth, diversity, percussion, and Mukiele saved the house (90 3). But Paris Saint-Germain ultimately won 3-1. Perfect before the Champions League on Wednesday evening.