Here’s our series. 5 good reasons to watch a match (with some adaptations sometimes). We’ll revisit the key aspects before each match, combining seriousness with a touch of humor. Note that this isn’t meant to be an exhaustive analysis. This time, we’re focusing on Paris Saint-Germain (1st) playing Olympique de Marseille (7th) at the Stade Vélodrome on Sunday, matchday 5 of the 2025-2026 Ligue 1 season (kick-off 8:45 PM, CET).
5 – Who will play as the striker?
With Ousmane Dembélé (28-year-old forward) and Désiré Doué (20-year-old midfielder/forward) out, PSG are looking for a convincing striker. Gonçalo Ramos (24-year-old forward) and Senny Mayulu (19-year-old attacking midfielder) have had their chances, with some promising moments but not always a decisive impact.
The choice is complicated, and Lee Kang-In (24-year-old midfielder/forward) is also an option. These are three quite different players, and it’s hard to predict who will be chosen this time. It might depend on the exact tactical plan, with varying degrees of mobility and attacking flair.
4 – Young talents to watch.
We don’t know if Mayulu will start, but we can expect him to play at some point. Like Warren Zaïre-Emery (19-year-old midfielder), possibly Ibrahim Mbaye (17-year-old forward) as well. This is a special match for these Paris-born players, and an opportunity to make an important impression for the future.
3 – A European feel.
Both teams played in the Champions League, so this is a bit of a continuation of those special European nights. We love the rivalry, and these high-level matches. Even if we always hope that PSG will come out on top.
2 – A turning point in the season?
The entire season isn’t decided in a single match, but these games can certainly shift the momentum and create a new dynamic. It would be very disappointing for Marseille to lose after their mixed results, and for PSG to have their undefeated streak ended. We expect a certain level of tension.
1 – A Classico is always special.
There are other factors at play, such as the league standings and the competition, of course. But above all, it’s an OM vs. PSG match. It’s a unique evening, one that stays in people’s memories and fuels discussions for a while. It’s simply a match to fully enjoy, with all the tension, the action on the pitch, and everything else that makes this fixture so special.
