Top 5 reasons to watch Lens v PSG | OneFootball

Here is our series: the 5 good reasons to watch a match. Before each game, we’ll look back at the appealing aspects with a mix of seriousness and humor. Mind you, this is not meant to be an exhaustive overview of the topic. We continue here with Paris Saint-Germain’s match this Sunday against Lens at Stade Bollaert in the 2026 Trophée des Champions (kick-off 8:45pm, Lens/PSG broadcast on Ligue1+).

5. A new Lens?

After a superb season, Pierre Sage could not resist the call of the Premier League. The coach therefore left RC Lens to sign for Crystal Palace. To replace him, the Lens management put their faith in Dino Toppmöller, who arrives from Eintracht Frankfurt with similar ideas. We even saw the same setup again during the friendlies. This first official match will be an opportunity to observe the differences and similarities. Even if not everything should be judged right at the start of the season.

4. Maghnes Akliouche starting again?

It was one of the surprises of Wednesday’s UEFA Super Cup, won 2-1 against Aston Villa: Maghnes Akliouche was in the starting lineup. The attacking midfielder/forward produced a fine first half as a false 9 before making way for Ousmane Dembélé (29). We can wonder whether he will start again with a team that has had more preparation, and in what position. It is a major point of curiosity for tonight. In any case, he should play; it remains to be seen where and for how long.

3. Kvaratskhelia, a future Ballon d’Or?

We do not like talking about the Ballon d’Or, but Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is being mentioned more and more for 2026 and he looks ready to back it up. Even if the choices are not made based on the upcoming matches, they can have some influence. Above all, the Georgian is confirming that he is at least good enough to be part of the discussion. The main thing we take from it is this: he is a truly great player. And he shows the way by example, because he knows how to be decisive without ever forgetting his defensive work.

2. A first for Digne?

Lucas Digne, the 33-year-old left-back, signed for PSG last weekend from Aston Villa. He did not play in Wednesday’s reunion, so it is reasonable to think he could make his debut this time. Though we cannot be sure whether that would be as a starter or off the bench.

1. A 2nd trophy in just the 2nd match.

PSG began their season with a title, and they can follow it up with a second. It would be a very fine start, helping to confirm their ambitions and simply add to their trophy haul. Of course, Lens will not just hand them a gift. They are a very strong opponent who will also want to begin with a trophy. Which promises a great match.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.