Here is the next installment in our “Analysis” series, taking a visual look back at a Paris Saint-Germain match to highlight a few key points. We are focusing on sequences from the 2-2 draw against Rennes at Roazhon Park during Matchday 1 of the 2026-2027 Ligue 1 season. This includes both goals—featuring assists from Fabian Ruiz (30-year-old midfielder) to Ferran Torres (26-year-old forward)—as well as the pass from Torres to Désiré Doué (21-year-old midfielder/forward) in the 75th minute, with the score at 2-1.
The situation as Fabian Ruiz looks up before the goal making it 2-1.
At first glance, the danger isn’t obvious, as Ruiz is far from goal and Torres is offside. However, the moment the midfielder looks up to find a pass, the Spanish forward immediately starts moving to signal that a through-ball is on. He does this using a curved run—an arc—to avoid being offside while simultaneously building up speed.
It is worth noting that Mika Godts (21-year-old forward) could have done the same thing—perhaps even more easily, given the somewhat disjointed Rennes defensive line. Instead, he remains in sync with the rest of the team’s dynamic, which is arguably a bit too static. We know PSG’s possession-based game is essential and effective, but it requires the ability to inject pace and verticality. While the midfield is being stifled by Rennes and the Parisian attack has somewhat stalled, Torres adds a crucial cutting edge.
Ruiz, too, deserves credit—he shouldn’t be overlooked. The Spaniard also added this crucial element, whereas other Paris midfielders have sometimes lacked boldness. He looked further ahead and dared to play the ball into space behind the defense. This is an area for improvement for the Parisians, whose play is sometimes a bit too “safe.” It is a matter of finding the right balance between possession and attacking intent.
The situation as Ruiz assesses his options for the 2–2 equalizer.
It is a similar scenario here: Ruiz is closer to goal, but also in a position where Paris midfielders often tend to circle around the penalty area. While that is sometimes necessary, one must also know when to be incisive. This also depends on the runs being made.
Here again, several Paris players are standing relatively still, facing the opposition goal. We can see that Rennes has a large number of players confronting Ruiz to block any attempt to break through via a pass or a dribble.
But Torres signals to him and immediately makes a run, while his compatriot does not hesitate to deliver a cross. A delightful one, at that, perfectly met by the Spanish forward—who also demonstrates another asset he brings to the table: his aerial ability.
The situation as Torres receives the ball on the counter-attack at 2–1.
It is not just about goals or playing into space; Torres also brought intelligence and selflessness to the game. It is worth noting that he scans the field before receiving the ball, using that moment to quickly decide to pass to Doué (who subsequently misses the target).
The forward could also have attempted to finish the play himself—either by driving forward or taking a first-time shot—given that Brice Samba’s advanced positioning left a potential opening to exploit. Perhaps if he were fitter, Torres might have tried to advance further, though that is far from certain; he is well aware of his own strengths and the importance of the collective effort. That mindset can only be a positive thing, especially given the moments of individualism seen since the restart.
