Top 5 reasons to watch Auxerre v PSG | OneFootball

Here is our saga. The 5 good reasons to follow a match (with a few adaptations at times). Before each match, we’ll revisit the attractive aspects with a mix of seriousness and humor. Please note, this is not meant to be an exhaustive overview of the topic. We continue here with the Paris Saint-Germain (2nd) match this Friday against Auxerre (17th) at Abbé-Deschamps during the 19th matchday of Ligue 1 2025-2026 (kick-off at 8:00 PM, Auxerre/PSG broadcast on Ligue1+).

5. Special schedule.

The fact that PSG is playing on Friday, with a Champions League match the Tuesday before and the following Wednesday, is interesting for recovery and preparation for the next game. However, the fact that the match is at 8:00 PM is quite unusual. It’s not so there can be another match later in the evening.

Maybe it’s a question of visibility abroad? But the time difference doesn’t seem to make much of a difference in that regard. In any case, we have to deal with it and possibly adapt. Might as well try to make it a positive adventure.

4. Mbaye returns.

Achraf Hakimi (27-year-old right back) also returned from AFCON, but he’s being rested as he has started every game since coming back from injury. Ibrahim Mbaye (17-year-old forward), was a substitute with Senegal. He came on in almost every match of the competition his country won and could be in pretty good shape. It’s not impossible that he could start. In any case, these are extra assets that will be beneficial.

3. Kvaratskhelia as a “leader”?

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (24-year-old forward) was a substitute against Sporting Portugal and could start this time, as others may need a rest. He’s also the only one who managed to score on Tuesday and is undoubtedly one of the most creative players to start the match tonight. He’ll be especially expected to break through Auxerre’s block. It will be interesting to see him take on this responsibility. It shouldn’t bother him, as he’s been in this role at Napoli and with Georgia. It’s even a chance for him to shine.

2. Collective response.

Since the defeat against Sporting Portugal, all Parisians have been feeling a bit down. Some are looking for someone to blame. But PSG will above all need to respond as a team, which is always the most important aspect in football. Goals and a win would do everyone good. The good news is that Paris seems able to rely on the return of quick play and effective pressing.

1. Taking first place or aiming for survival.

We just mentioned a win, ideally with several goals, which would lift spirits. But it’s also important for the standings. PSG must aim for first place, which requires a win, especially as Lens is on an impressive run (8 straight league wins).

Their streak will be put to the test against Olympique de Marseille on Saturday night, so PSG needs to put the pressure on with a victory. Beware, Auxerre is not here to put on a show. They need to secure survival, so we can expect high intensity.

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