Here’s our series. The 5 good reasons to watch a match (with some adjustments here and there). We’ll revisit the compelling aspects before each match with a mix of seriousness and humor. Please note, this isn’t meant to be an exhaustive overview. We continue here with the match between Paris Saint-Germain (2nd) and Metz (18th) this Saturday at the Stade Saint-Symphorien for Matchday 16 of the 2025-2026 Ligue 1 season (kick-off at 7 pm, CET).
5 – Metz, the team capable of anything.
A disastrous start to the season, a comeback that included a victory against Lens (1st), and then a slide back to 18th place. It’s difficult to say exactly where Metz will be at the end of the season. They should be watched closely; they absolutely haven’t given up, even though some thought their season was already over. But this team can also falter. It’s always interesting to follow.
4 – Getting back on track.
The 5-0 win against Rennes last Saturday was a welcome boost, but then there was the 0-0 draw against Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday in the Champions League. A dip in collective energy in the first half, followed by a return to form in the second. We hope to see Paris back on track, even if the schedule is difficult to manage.
3 – Désiré Doué, at least a little.
The 20-year-old midfielder/forward returned to the pitch on Wednesday after a little over a month’s absence. That’s already good news. We hope to see him play regularly; he’s still as valuable as ever in terms of creativity. Even if he’s obviously not at 100%. We also don’t know if he’ll be able to start. But such an asset can always help, and it’s also in preparation for what’s to come.
2 – An opportunity for the reserves.
Just three days after a Champions League match, we expect rotation in this game. It’s not always ideal, but it’s also an opportunity for some players to prove themselves. In the context of competition for places, it’s interesting. There are also some young players, for example, that we can appreciate. The progress of Ibrahim Mbaye (17-year-old forward) and Quentin Ndjantou (18-year-old midfielder/forward) seems worth watching.
1 – Finish top in 2025, or avoid last place.
PSG is second, nothing dramatic. But it’s not a comfortable position. They need a win to have any hope of overtaking Lens (who host Nice). It’s a great mission for this final Ligue 1 matchday of 2025 (the Coupe de France is next weekend, then it’s the winter break). We’re counting on a determined PSG. As well as Metz, who certainly want to spend the holidays without being bottom of the table.
