Here’s our series. The 5 best reasons to watch a match (with some adjustments here and there). We’ll be highlighting the most appealing 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 Parc des Princes for Matchday 23 of the 2025-2026 Ligue 1 season (kick-off 9:05 PM, CET).
5 – Another crazy match?
The gap in the standings is significant, as it was for a while in the first leg when PSG led 2-0 from the 39th minute. Despite rotating the squad, Paris seemed set for a relatively comfortable evening. However, Metz neatly reduced the deficit a few minutes later.
Désiré Doué restored PSG’s two-goal lead in the 63rd minute, but it was only for PSG to pull one back again in the 81st minute, following a beautiful team move. Then came a somewhat chaotic end to the match, with PSG almost in a panic. Could we see a repeat of such a dramatic scenario this time around? We certainly hope for a spectacle, with just as many goals.
4 – First start for Dro Fernandez?
The 18-year-old midfielder, who arrived at PSG this winter from FC Barcelona, has made a few very encouraging appearances off the bench. Perhaps he could start this time, as Warren Zaïre-Emery (19), Vitinha (26), and possibly João Neves (21) might need a rest. It would be interesting to see Dro get more playing time in a match.
3 – Lee Kang-In to start again?
Since returning from injury, Lee Kang-In (25-year-old midfielder) has made several impressive appearances off the bench in different roles. In this match, where some rotation is expected, it’s quite conceivable that he’ll get a chance in the starting eleven. Perhaps in place of Vitinha, as the playmaker. In any case, we hope he can confirm the sharpness he’s shown and his ability to be decisive. This is a moment that should allow him to make his mark.
2 – Managing the Intermittent Period
PSG is between two Champions League matches, which is always a unique period. The squad management will be crucial, as will their ability to perform despite the changes. This is the philosophy of coach Luis Enrique; it’s up to the players to prove him right on the pitch.
1 – Title or Survival Objective
There’s more to the game than just the Champions League; PSG can’t afford to drop any points in the Ligue 1 title race. This competition, brought on by RC Lens, ensures consistently intense and important matches. All the better for the spectacle. On the other side, the need for points is also real, even if a trip to Paris is rarely planned as a victory on the calendar. Metz is fighting to avoid relegation and must give everything to secure a result. Intensity is guaranteed, even if Metz might adopt a very defensive approach.
