What's Happening?
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is set to face Paris FC in a significant Ligue 1 derby at Parc des Princes. This match marks the first top-division derby between the two Parisian teams since 1978. PSG is dealing with several player absences due to the Africa Cup of Nations and injuries, including key players like Achraf Hakimi and Ibrahim Mbaye. Lucas Chevalier is expected to return as the goalkeeper after recovering from an injury. Warren Zaire-Emery will fill in for Hakimi in the right defensive slot, following his impressive performance since Hakimi's injury during a Champions League match against Bayern Munich. The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:45 PM BST on January 4, 2026, and will be streamed exclusively on Amazon Prime Video.
Why It's Important?
This derby
is significant as it highlights the growing competitiveness within Ligue 1, especially with Paris FC's rise to the top division. The match also underscores the challenges PSG faces with player availability, which could impact their performance in both domestic and international competitions. The outcome of this match could influence PSG's standing in the league and their preparation for upcoming fixtures, including the Trophée des Champions clash with Marseille. For Paris FC, this is an opportunity to establish themselves as a formidable team in Ligue 1 and gain recognition on a larger stage.
What's Next?
Following this match, PSG will need to focus on managing their squad effectively, especially with key players missing due to international duties and injuries. The team will also prepare for their upcoming match against Marseille in the Trophée des Champions. Paris FC, on the other hand, will aim to build on their performance in this derby to strengthen their position in Ligue 1. Both teams will be looking to adjust their strategies based on the outcome of this match and the availability of their players in the coming weeks.
