Coupe de France: RC Lens vs. PSG – Preview, Team News, and Prediction
The Coupe de France Round of 64 sets the stage for an exciting all-Ligue 1 showdown as RC Lens host defending champions PSG at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis on Sunday night. This high-stakes encounter will see one of the tournament favorites exit early, with both teams bringing distinct motivations to the clash.
PSG: Aiming to Extend Their Dominance
Paris Saint-Germain enter this contest as reigning Coupe de France and Ligue 1 champions, riding on excellent form. Under Luis Enrique, the Parisians have been firing on all cylinders, highlighted by a crucial 4-2 comeback win over Monaco midweek. That victory secured their 10-point lead in Ligue 1 heading into 2024, complementing earlier triumphs over Red Bull Salzburg and Lyon.
The Coupe de France holds a special place for PSG, who lifted the trophy last season after defeating Lyon in the final. With 14 titles to their name, they remain one of the competition’s most decorated clubs. Their recent record against Lens is equally impressive, winning their last four meetings, including a narrow 1-0 league victory in November.
Lens: Battling Against the Odds
RC Lens, managed by Will Still, face an uphill task but come into this game in good form. The Blood and Gold have secured seven points from their last three Ligue 1 matches, including a resilient 2-2 draw against Auxerre. Despite their league momentum, Lens’ recent cup history has been underwhelming, with a Round of 64 exit to Monaco last season.
Lens’ passionate home crowd at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis will be pivotal in creating a fiery atmosphere. The team’s gritty determination and strong home performances could make this a compelling David vs. Goliath battle.
Team News and Tactics
RC Lens face some injury concerns. Remy Labeau Lascary is ruled out due to a knee injury, while Angelo Fulgini remains a doubt after being forced off last weekend. Key players Jonathan Gradit and Nampalys Mendy also miss out, leaving Lens with a reduced squad.
Lens are likely to deploy a 5-2-3 formation, with Brice Samba in goal and a backline led by Kevin Danso. Upfront, Mbala Nzola and Anass Zaroury will spearhead the attack, aiming to capitalize on counterattacking opportunities.
Probable Lineup (5-2-3): Samba; Frankowski, Danso, Khusanov, Medina, Chavez; Thomasson, El Aynaoui; Da Costa, Nzola, Zaroury.
PSG, meanwhile, are without Nuno Mendes and Gianluigi Donnarumma, with the latter sidelined due to a facial injury. Teenage sensation Desire Doue, who has delivered two goals and two assists in his last three games, is expected to lead the line alongside Ousmane Dembele and Bradley Barcola.
Luis Enrique will likely stick with a 4-3-3 setup, emphasizing control in midfield through Warren Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, and Fabian Ruiz.
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Joao Neves; Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz; Dembele, Doue, Barcola.
Key Stats
- PSG have won the Coupe de France 14 times, including their triumph last season.
- Lens are winless in their last four encounters with PSG, the latest being a 1-0 league defeat.
- PSG are unbeaten in their last 31 Ligue 1 away games, showcasing their resilience on the road.
- Lens have never won the Coupe de France despite reaching the final three times.
- Stade Bollaert-Delelis remains a fortress for Lens, offering a vibrant atmosphere that could trouble PSG.
Player to Watch: Desire Doue
At just 18, Desire Doue has emerged as one of PSG’s brightest prospects. With two goals and two assists in his last three games, the teenager’s creativity and technical skill have been crucial in PSG’s attack. Doue’s composure and decision-making in key moments make him a player to watch in this knockout fixture.
Prediction
RC Lens 1-3 PSG
Live Stream
Watch online via NaijaSport247 TV
