Four days after their European Super Cup victory against Tottenham (4-3 on penalties), manager Luis Enrique rested most of his key players. Only five players retained their starting spots: Lucas Chevalier, Willian Pacho, Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, and Bradley Barcola. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma's continued absence hinted at a potential transfer.

With the attacking trio of Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Desire Doue on the bench, PSG's attacking prowess was significantly diminished. In the first half, the reigning Champions League title holders struggled to break down Nantes' 6-3-1 formation. Their best chance came from a Goncalo Ramos shot that hit the crossbar.

Vitinha celebrates his goal during the Nantes 0-1 PSG match on the evening of 17/8. Photo: SF

Vitinha celebrates his goal during the Nantes 0-1 PSG match on the evening of 17/8. Photo: SF

The second half began much the same way, prompting Enrique to introduce Achraf Hakimi, Doue, Dembele, and Nuno Mendes after 60 minutes. The substitutions paid off quickly. Seven minutes later, PSG scored the only goal of the match. Following a cross from Mendes, Vitinha's shot from outside the box deflected off Chidozie Awaziem, wrong-footing goalkeeper Anthony Lopes.

Nantes' greatest success lay in effectively neutralizing PSG's attack. Their deep-lying defensive block, employed by the team that finished 13th in Ligue 1 last season, stifled PSG's midfield and closed down most routes to goal. Nantes attempted to counter through right midfielder Yassine Benhattab and forward Matthis Abline, but to no avail. They managed only five shots, none of which were on target.

PSG return home to face Angers on 22/8. Nantes, meanwhile, travel to Strassbourg in search of their first points of the season.

Thanh Quy