Narrow defeat in ICC semi

Paris Saint-Germain took on the North Carolina Courage in their opening match of the International Champions Cup in the Hard Rock Stadium, home of the Miami Dolphins. Paris coach Olivier Echouafni went with a 4-5-1 formation with Irene Paredes returning to the centre of the defence.

In an even start, both sides enjoyed chances before the Americans opened the scoring through Jessica MacDonald (19’). Les Rouge et Bleu drew level before the break when Kaleigh Jurtz netted an own goal after Perle Morroni hit the crossbar and it was all square at half-time.

Paris made one change at the break with Paulina Dudek replaced by Rania Aouina. But it was the home side that set the pace in the early stages of the second half before Paris finished strongly. Midway through the second period, Echouafni brought on Anissa Lahmarie for Kadidiatou Diani and Davinia Vanmechelen for Irene Paredes. Les Parisiennes looked dangerous but could find the back of the net and it was North Carolina that got the win in the 84th minute when Darian Jenkins scored. Melike Pekel replaced Jordyn Huitema in the Paris ranks but it ended 2-1.

Paris now take on Manchester City, beaten 3-0 by Olympique Lyonnais, in Sunday’s third-place play-off match.