Paris Saint-Germain vs Lyon

March 16, 2017
By: Milos Markovic

French Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain continue their road to recovery from the UEFA Champions League disappointment with a high-profile match against in-form Lyon. Les Parisiens need to win in order to keep up with leaders Monaco, but Lyon are a tough nut to crack and we are in for a proper gem of a game.

PSG not over Europe disappointment

Paris Saint-Germain looked all but guaranteed a place in the Champions League quarterfinals as they headed into the Camp Nou return leg against Barcelona with a tangible 4-0 lead. And despite going three goals down after 50 minutes, Emery’s men got back into the match through Edinson Cavani, only to be mutilated in the closing stages of the game mostly thanks to the referee Deniz Aytekin, who had one of the worst nights of his career. The French league champions are deeply unhappy with the officiating in the match and have already files a five-page dossier to UEFA to complain about the defeat. Aytekin awarded Barcelona two penalties and failed to handle pressure which saw him make terrible key decisions which ultimately cost PSG their place in the quarterfinals. Emery’s men are still forced to look ahead as there is a big game coming up at the weekend. Having beaten Lorient 2-1, PSG got back to winning ways following the Barcelona disappointment and are now looking to continue the run against in-form Lyon.

Unai Emery has got no confirmed absentee, but the PSG boss is sweating over the fitness of Thomas Meunier who has picked up an ankle injury last time out. Additionally, Lucas Moura is having back problems, whereas Blaise Matuidi has adductor complaints. Ultimately, Thiago Motta is struggling with a calf strain and all of those players are in doubt ahead of the forthcoming clash.

Lyon gaining momentum

Following an inconsistent spell at the beginning of the year, which saw Lyon lose five of eight opening matches in 2017, Bruno Genesio’s men have managed to gain a positive momentum which has guided them through a seven-game unbeaten run in all competitions. Les Gones won six of those seven games and are heading to the Parc des Princes in excellent form. Lyon fans are delighted to see their January signing from Manchester United, Memphis Depay, finally come good after the initial criticism. The Dutch winger is up and running in full speed as he managed to score four goals in last three appearances for the French club. Depay’s brace helped Lyon to a 4-0 win over Toulouse last time out, with the Dutch international hitting the headlines with his impressive half-line goal. The visitors will be hopeful their in-form forward will be able to extend his fantastic performances and help Lyon close the gap behind PSG to 12 points. Lyon are currently sitting in fourth place in the standings, 13 points behind Nive and huge 15 behind PSG.

Bruno Genesio will have a clean bill of health with the Brazilian defender Rafael the only doubt for the game. Former Manchester United man has picked up an injury, but is expected to get back in time for this important clash.

Verdict

Paris Saint-Germain have won six of last seven meetings with Lyon and are holding an upper hand to their rivals, but Les Parisiens are still shaken up from the Barcelona defeat and Lyon could use it in their favour. Les Gones are enjoying a purple patch at the moment and should not be underestimated.

Top pick: Both teams to score – yes   1.61 (11/18) @8898sport

Alternative pick 2: Draw no bet Lyon   5.20 (21/5) @Unibet

Alternative pick 2: Lyon +1.25 Asian handicap   1.84 (21/25) @Bet365

We Highly Recommend These Places
Share your Opinion!

  1. STEPHEN KILUNGYA says:

    AWESOME