Fortunately, Paris has Barcola!

PSG beat Rennes this Friday at the Parc des Princes thanks to a very good Bradley Barcola. Not without fear, however.

In four days, PSG has a meeting with Arsenal in the Champions League. Until then, the capital club has every interest in raising its level of play somewhat. After two insipid outings against Girona in C1 (1-0) and Reims in L1 (1-1), the Parisians have logically disposed of a too timid Stade Rennais at the Parc des Princes, this Friday, as part of the 6e championship day (3-1). Without particularly shining.

Apart from Joao Neves, who once again appeared at ease in midfield, Luis Enrique’s men owed their salvation in this part above all to an excellent Bradley Barcola. Credited with the opening score just before the half-hour mark (29e), the latter proved decisive on the break goal signed Kang-in Lee (58e) – his strike having previously struck the frame defended by Mandanda – this before signing the achievement of the KO in stride (68e), for his sixth goal of the season already in Ligue 1.

An uncontrolled endgame

Recalled to the bench after this third Parisian goal, like Marquinhos and Fabian Ruiz, the former Lyonnais was then sorely missed in his training. The Rennais took the opportunity to revive with a penalty converted by Arnaud Kalimuendo after a handball in the area from Lucas Beraldo (73e). Before giving a cold sweat to their hosts, who are then totally disorganized.

Paris was thus frightened by a new handball in the area from Warren Zaire Emery – this one not sanctioned – and by a goal scored forcefully by Alidu Seidu, invalidated via the VAR for a counterattack from the hand of the unfortunate Ghanaian. A real relief for PSG who had then lost control of the debates. On arrival, however, this 3-1 victory allows the Parisians to consolidate their leadership ahead of the Marseillais and the Monegasques, who are expected this weekend in Strasbourg and at home against Montpellier.