Le Mans v. Paris: On all fronts

a look at the journeys

After beating Ambrières (0-5) and US Changé (2-4) from the Mayenne region in their opening matches in the competition, the Sang et Or defeated Vannes OC (N3) in the 7th round (1-2), before easing past a second Morbihan club: Locminé (N2, 4-0). In the round of 64, Le Mans were drawn against minnows Marmande (0-7). However, it was in the previous round that the Manceaux had to face another professional side for the first time in their campaign, Valenciennes FC (N1), who they beat on penalties (1-1, 4-3 on penalties).

For their part, Paris Saint-Germain made their first appearance in the competition in the round of 64, as was the case for all Ligue 1 sides. It was a big game with a top-flight rival to kick things off for the Rouge et Bleu, as they made the perilous trip to Lens, where they managed to secure qualification on penalties (1-1, 3-4 on penalties). The draw was then kinder to the capital club, who were drawn against Espaly (N3) in the round of 32. At the Stade Marcel-Michelin, Paris were tested by a valiant Haute-Loire side, but still managed to progress (2-4).

the dynamics in numbers

the opposition

Patrick Videira and his team mainly operate in a 5-3-2 system. In goal, Valenciennes-trained Nicolas Kocik is the usual choice in the league, while Ewan Hatfout is the preferred choice in the Coupe de France. In front of him, former Dunkerque man Samuel Yohou is the mainstay of the Manche defence, along with Théo Eyoum. The question that remains is who will start in central defence, with Zakary Lamgahez and Paris Saint-Germain-trained Harold Voyer the preferred options.

At right-back, it is the solid Anthony Ribelin who is expected to feature. Having played for Montpellier and Stade Rennais FC, the former France U19 international has established himself at Le Mans, as has young Belgian prospect Vincent Burlet on the opposite side. On loan from Lille, the Red Devils' U19 international is the favourite to start on the left flank, even though 18-year-old Jérémie Matumona has shown some promise in that position in recent weeks.

In midfield, the Sang et Or have had to adapt in the absence of their usual captain Edwin Quarshie, who is injured. Les Manceaux look to Alexandre Lauray in particular to take over from him. The former Girondins de Bordeaux player could be joined by Martin Rossignol (21) and the very young Gabin Bernardeau (19), both of whom came through at the Sarthe club. Ali Ouchen and Adam Oudjani, who have more attacking profiles, could also make an appearance during the game.

Up front, the Sang et Or's top scorer Arnold Vula (12 goals in 16 matches in all competitions this season) is unlikely to be fit for the match, barring any surprises. Senegal international Dame Gueye (8 goals, 4 assists) is therefore expected to lead the attack, accompanied by former Marseille striker Antoine Rabillard (5 goals, 3 assists). Striker Kembo Diliwidi, who arrived in the Pays de la Loire only a few days ago on loan from RC Lens, could make his first appearance for Le Mans.