Here is our ongoing series: 5 great reasons to tune in to the match. We’ll be highlighting the most compelling aspects before every game, mixing serious analysis with a touch of humor. Mind you, this isn’t meant to be an exhaustive preview. Next up is Paris Saint-Germain’s match this Sunday against Rennes at Roazhon Park, marking Matchday 1 of the 2026-2027 Ligue 1 season (kick-off at 8:45 PM; CET).
5 – A match with an undercurrent of tension.
After tonight’s fixture was swapped due to the Parc des Princes pitch being ruined by the heatwave, talks quickly began regarding the return leg in March—which Rennes would also like to host at Roazhon Park. It’s an episode everyone could have done without, and it might weigh on tonight’s match—perhaps even influencing pre-game comments.
4 – Godts and Torres making their debuts?
Ferran Torres and Mika Godts—attackers aged 26 and 21—are PSG’s latest signings; they couldn’t play last Sunday against Lens because they had signed just the day before. This time, they are officially registered and in the squad. They could well feature, though there’s no guarantee regarding how much playing time they’ll get.
3 – PSG looking to bounce back.
The Trophée des Champions might not be the season’s most coveted trophy, and a lack of preparation is a factor to consider, but last Sunday’s defeat to Lens was still a bitter pill to swallow. We know this team; they’ll be looking to set things right as quickly as possible. That mindset could drive them to deliver a great performance.
2 – Hopes for an open game.
Paris has its own attacking ideas and a desire to make a strong statement, but so does the opposition. Under Franck Haise, Rennes plays with an attacking philosophy and is capable of producing some excellent spells of football. Hopefully, Rennes will stick with this approach, even if there might be some adjustments against PSG. We hope to see more ambition, especially at home.
1 – The league season is underway.
The Ligue 1 campaign has begun, with a title up for grabs at the end of a long run of matches where the team must play well and win as often as possible—all while acknowledging that tough times lie ahead. That is simply part of football. It is a long season, yet it flies by. It is exciting to follow, and we should make the most of it.
