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As Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) prepare to face Angers SCO on Friday, August 22, 2025, at the Parc des Princes (8:45 PM CET) for the second round of Ligue 1, we dive into the key dynamics, players to watch, and stakes for this first home match of the season. Here’s an in-depth look at what awaits the Rouge et Bleu against a resilient Angers side.
A Strong Start for Both Teams
Angers SCO, who secured their Ligue 1 status last season with a 14th-place finish, face another tough campaign to avoid relegation. Despite a limited budget, the Scoïstes kicked off the 2025–26 season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paris FC. Reduced to 10 men just before the hour mark, the Maine-et-Loire side showed grit to hold their lead, boosting their confidence as they head to the Parc des Princes.
Paris Saint-Germain, meanwhile, have started the season in top form. The Parisians claimed their first silverware of the campaign in Italy, defeating Tottenham in a thrilling European Super Cup match (2-2, 4-3 on penalties). Four days later, despite physical fatigue, PSG dug deep to secure a 1-0 away win against Nantes in their Ligue 1 opener, showcasing their depth and determination.
Key Stats to Watch
- 3: Angers SCO have won three of their last four Ligue 1 matches, including victories over FC Nantes, Racing Club de Strasbourg, and Paris FC, signaling their growing momentum.
- 7: Angers’ new goalkeeper, Hervé Koffi, led all Ligue 1 goalkeepers in Matchday 1 with seven saves, at least three more than any other, proving his critical role in their defensive setup.
- 10: PSG have won all 10 of their last Ligue 1 home games against Angers SCO, their longest active home winning streak against any top-flight opponent.
- 71: Gonçalo Ramos led Ligue 1 in successful presses in the opposition half during Matchday 1, with 71 total presses (66 in the final third), at least 16 more than any other player, highlighting his relentless work rate.
Players to Watch: Angers’ Key Figures
Under coach Alexandre Dujeux, Angers are likely to deploy a compact 4-5-1 formation to counter PSG’s attacking prowess. Here’s a closer look at their potential lineup:
- Goalkeeper: Burkina Faso international Hervé Koffi will start in goal, bringing his Matchday 1 heroics to the Parc des Princes, while Yahia Fofana is expected to depart.
- Defense: Jordan Lefort anchors the central defense, likely paired with Ousmane Camara, who edges out young Emmanuel Biumla (20) and veteran Abdoulaye Bamba (35). Carlens Arcus provides stability at right-back, while Florent Hanin is favored over Jacques Ekomié at left-back.
- Midfield: Haris Belkebla, the Angers captain, is a doubt due to a calf injury, as is technical maestro Himad Abdelli, who is recovering from a back issue. If both are unavailable, Yassin Belkhdim and veteran Pierrick Capelle (38) are expected to anchor the midfield. With Louis Mouton suspended after a red card in the last match, academy product Marius Courcoul (18) could make a surprise start.
- Wings: Lilian Raolisoa has impressed on the right side of midfield, competing with the more attack-minded Jim Allevinah. On the left, 18-year-old Sidiki Chérif is likely to start, with Justin Kalumba expected to return to the squad.
- Forward: Estéban Lepaul is the focal point up top, but his potential transfer to Stade Rennais could see Sidiki Chérif shift to the center, opening a spot on the left wing. Young strikers Lanroy Machine (19) and Prosper Peter (18) are likely to feature off the bench.
Challenges and Opportunities
For Angers, facing PSG at the Parc des Princes is a daunting task, but their recent defensive resilience and Koffi’s shot-stopping ability give them hope. However, injuries to key players like Belkebla and Abdelli, combined with Mouton’s suspension, could limit their midfield creativity.
PSG, buoyed by their early-season successes, will look to dominate possession and exploit Angers’ defensive setup with their dynamic attack. Gonçalo Ramos’ pressing and the team’s depth will be key, especially as they aim to maintain their perfect home record against Angers. However, managing fatigue after a demanding week will be crucial for the Rouge et Bleu.
What’s at Stake
This match offers PSG a chance to solidify their title credentials and thrill their home fans in their first Ligue 1 match at the Parc des Princes this season. For Angers, a positive result would be a massive statement of intent in their fight to stay in Ligue 1. With both teams coming off wins, this clash promises intensity and intrigue.
