Paris Saint-Germain beat Rodez to stay top

After their victory at Orléans in the Round of 32 of the Coupe de France, Les Parisiennes were back in league action with the current leaders hosting Rodez, who currently sit in bottom place of D1 Arkema. The objective was clear for Les Rouge et Bleu: maintain their spot at the top of the league, with at least a one-point lead over Olympique Lyonnais. For this encounter, Coach Gérard Prêcheur started with captain Kadidiatou Diani at the tip of the attack. 

From the get-go, Les Parisiennes showed good intentions and looked to attack. After a good run from Sakina Karchaoui, the Paris Saint-Germain n°7 found Sandy Baltimore who flicked on to Diani, but the latter saw her effort cleared off the line by the visitors' defence. Shortly before the break, Li Mengwen perfectly played a ball in deep for Jackie Groenen, who the goalkeeper then brought down. The referee pointed to the penalty spot, and Diani made no mistake and scored her 10th league goal of the season (1-0, 42'). 

After the break, the club from the capital put pressure on the Rodez goal, but Baltimore saw an effort turned away for a corner (56'). A few minutes later, Grace Geyoro, was smartly found by Karchaoui, but missed the target with her strike (69'). Les Parisiennes were determined to score a second goal and they went close when an impressive move from two substitutes Manssita Traoré and Kheira Hamraoui, saw the latter hit the post (81'). And although they didn't manage to extend their lead, Les Parisiennes were barely troubled throughout the match and deservedly took the three points.

Mission accomplished for Gérard Prêcheur's squad who will keep top spot in D1 Arkema after this win. A source of confidence going into the local derby with the trip to Fleury 91, who currently sit in fifth place in the league.