Ligue 1: Paris Saint-Germain looking to extend lead at the top, Lyon host Marseille

The international break is fast drawing to a close, and we can look forward to the return of Ligue 1 action this weekend. We will preview and give the full lowdown ahead of two games – Paris Saint-Germain v Nantes on Saturday, and Lyon v Marseille on Sunday evening. We will also check in on the latest odds for both these games.

Paris Saint-Germain looking to pick up from where they left off

Sometimes, it can take a little time to reset or readjust after an international break. Before the break, PSG were in fabulous form, and a 2-0 defeat away to Rennes last month has been their only blemish to date in France’s top flight.

The French giants are still waiting for Lionel Messi to catch fire, but maybe Georginio Wijnaldum has turned a corner. There had been reports suggesting there was a rift between Wijnaldum and PSG’s South American contingent, but after scoring a double in the 2-2 draw to RB Leipzig in the Champions League earlier this month, the Dutchman will be hoping he is starting to settle.

Kylian Mbappe’s confidence sky high after exploits with France

Kylian Mbappe has been in electric form for PSG this season, netting six times. But his four-goal showing in France’s 8-0 crushing of Kazakhstan in their World Cup qualifier last week bodes well for PSG, and he will be hoping to add to his tally against Nantes.

Nantes hoping for inspiration after recent slump

Although Nantes are in mid-table, they will want to arrest their recent slump. They have won only once in their past four Ligue 1 outings, and if they can string together some results, they will quickly climb the table. However, they have a big ask to stop PSG at the Parc des Princes.

PSG v Nantes: A look back at past encounters

While PSG boasts a better head-to-head record against Nantes, there will be Nantes fans that will be relishing a trip to watch their side in the French capital. Last season, Nantes claimed a come-from-behind victory, and Moses Daddy Simon was the match-winner that day.

Lyon hoping for quick burst after international break

Before the international break, Lyon were still trying to find their best form. Wins over Monaco and Lens were very encouraging; however, earlier this month they crashed to a 4-1 defeat away to Rennes.

And with some tough fixtures coming up against Marseille and Montpellier in the league, Lyon need to get on a run and build some confidence in the side. Lyon will be targeting a top-four finish, and Peter Bosz needs to get his ideas across.

Meanwhile, Marseille are trending nicely. However, they will be looking to cut out some of the draws. They have drawn three of their past four Ligue 1 games, but they haven’t lost since a 2-0 defeat away to Lille at the beginning of the month. They will certainly ask a lot of questions of Lyon.

Lyon v Marseille: Looking back on past encounters

Lyon v Marseille has always been a tight affair. Last season, both matches ended in a 1-1 draw. Although it has also been a rather feisty affair, as both games saw a sending off too. This weekend’s clash will make for fascinating viewing, even though it may be tough to pick a winner.

Meanwhile, reports have suggested that Marseille wish to sign William Saliba after his loan spell with Arsenal ends following the conclusion of the campaign. A loan back to Saint-Etienne was supposed to be part of the deal, but Marseille are hoping to gazump that.

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