- Paris Saint-Germain FC have won their last five Ligue 1 head-to-heads against Angers SCO
- Angers have failed to win any of their last five Ligue 1 matches (D2, L3)
- PSG have won three of their last five Ligue 1 fixtures, including a 4-0 win at Nice.
Tactical battle of styles at Stade Raymond Kopa
The clash between Angers SCO and Paris Saint-Germain FC on Saturday will be a tactical battle of two very different styles, with the home side fighting for their lives and the visitors trying to maintain their title charge.
PSG’s style has been defined by Luis Enrique, as his possession-based 4-3-3 has brought an aggressive pressing game to the French capital that has seen them dominate most of Ligue 1.
When it works, PSG can overrun their opponents, as they have done in their previous five meetings with Angers SCO, who have been on the receiving end of five defeats. Saturday’s hosts have tried to combat their title-chasing opponents with a low block and a compact, pragmatic approach based around set pieces and counters.
Angers have won six, drawn four and lost five of their 15 Ligue 1 home games this season, scoring 17 goals, while PSG have won nine of 14 on the road, averaging 1.93 goals per game. It is worth noting that PSG have also won both of their previous two away fixtures in this league.
PSG to win in a goal-fest
Angers SCO are 13th in Ligue 1 with 34 points from 30 games, while PSG are in top spot on 63 points from 28, so it is little surprise to see the visitors as favourites to take the three points here at a price of 7/25.
That is because Enrique’s tactical tweaks have kept PSG sharp, and they have won their last two away matches. Paris’ pressing and fluid attacking style can overload the opposition in waves and they have the talent to finish the chances they create.
Angers will look to frustrate, as they usually do, and sit deep in a low block, while PSG will dominate possession and try to take advantage of the transitions. As a result, we’re taking them to score over 2.5 goals and for both teams to score - yes, as Angers will have chances on the counter.
Peter and Barcola can make the difference
Prosper Peter is Angers’ main goal threat, having scored five times in 26 Ligue 1 appearances this season, while he has scored two of his side’s last three. He is the main outlet from their deep defensive block, so it is always worth having onside when he is on the ball.
Lilian Rao-Lisoa has been a spark of creativity lately, however, providing three assists in Angers’ last five games and he can also cause problems for PSG’s central defenders.
Bradley Barcola is PSG’s most clinical finisher this term, as he has demonstrated in big games, with 10 goals in 23 Ligue 1 outings. He can make the difference on Saturday.
