Nantes vs Paris: Turn the yellow tide
Join us as we take a look ahead to the rescheduled Matchday 29 Ligue 1 clash between FC Nantes and Paris Saint-Germain, this Tuesday 22 April at the Stade de La Beaujoire. We take a look at the form guide and players to watch for a Canaries side fighting for their survival.
FORM IN NUMBERS
OPPOSITION STRENGTHS
Antoine Kombouaré and his side have favoured two distinct formations this season: the 4-3-3 and 5-2-3, but it looks as if it will be five at the back against Les Parisiens. In goal, Anthony Lopes has already imposed himself as an integral element for Les Jaune et Vert, but the former Lyon shot stopper is a doubt after picking up an injury in the derby against Rennes. If he does miss out, Sweden international Patrik Carlgren will take his place between the posts.
In the centre of defence, the promising Nathan Zézé should get the nod alongside Cameroon international Jean-Charles Castelletto. But there is plenty of competition for places at the back and both Saïdou Sow and Nicolas Pallois could also step in. At right back, Fabien Centonze is still missing with injury, while Marcus Coco is suspended after his red card in the derby. Wales international Sorba Thomas is an attack-minded option, but the coaching staff look likely to prefer former Toulouse defender Kelvin Amian.
On the opposite side of the defence, Nicolas Cozza – on loan from Wolfsburg – will start. The midfield will be led by captain Douglas Augusto, but who will accompany him in the engine room? There’s the youngster Louis Leroux, the solid Johann Lepenant and former captain Pedro Chirivella all vying for one spot. The winter signing and former Arsenal midfielder Francis Coquelin is not fit enough to take on Les Rouge et Bleu.
Up front, Nigeria international Moses Simon (7 goals and 9 assists in Ligue 1 this term) is the first name on the team sheet on the left wing. Also enjoying a great season, Matthis Abline (8 goals, 2 assists) is also expected to start on the right, allowing Mostafa Mohamed (5 goals, 1 assist) to play through the middle. Kombouaré boasts plenty of attacking options on the bench, with Tino Kadewere, Sorba Thomas, Herba Guirassy and Meschack Elia all likely to feature at some point.
A look at what happened last time
