PSG are set to kick off their new campaign in style when they lock horns with Lens in what promises to be a thrilling French league clash. Fresh from lifting the UEFA Super Cup against Aston Villa thanks to strikes from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue the Parisians look hungry for more silverware and their shot stopper Matvei Safonov has already shown he can stand tall in big moments with key stops in the second half. Lens on the other hand head into this one with plenty of off field drama after losing their manager and struggling to bring in fresh faces ahead of the new term.
Team Form
PSG wrapped up last season with Champions League glory and have carried that momentum straight into the current campaign making them the team to beat once again. Their attacking options remain sharp while the defensive unit looks solid with the Russian keeper adding real reliability between the posts. Lens meanwhile enjoyed a strong push last time out but financial constraints have left them short on depth and the new boss faces a tough task rebuilding confidence quickly.
- PSG won the Super Cup with a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa
- Safonov produced vital saves in the second half of that final
- Lens finished second last season but lacked consistency over the full campaign
- New Lens coach previously built an exciting side at Eintracht Frankfurt
Tactical Analysis
Luis Enrique has turned PSG into a well oiled machine that blends flair with ruthless efficiency and their high press should cause Lens all sorts of problems on the break. Lens under their new manager may try to play with more freedom inspired by his Frankfurt days yet the lack of squad investment could leave them exposed when PSG turn on the style. Key duels in midfield will decide how much time the visitors get to create chances while set pieces could also play a big role given both sides have dangerous options from dead balls.
Strengths for PSG include their experience in high pressure games and depth across the squad while Lens will rely on team spirit and home support to stay competitive. Weaknesses for the hosts centre on limited resources and a disrupted pre season while PSG must guard against any complacency after their recent triumphs.
Betting Proposal
After weighing up the form gap and squad quality the smart money sits with the away side to take all three points. PSG win at odds of 1.75 stands out as the value selection given their current momentum and Lens ongoing transition issues.
