Paris Saint-Germain – Girondins De Bordeaux: Yacine Adli Foils His Former Side (2-2)

Bordeaux’s decision to bring more high pressure early in the second half unsettled PSG’s three-man buildup and in the end led to the match’s tying goal. However, it was the home side’s lack of defensive fortitude and refusal to put in the requisite work in all four phases of the game that was their ultimate undoing.  
Tactical analysis and match report by K.T. Stockwell.

A desperate one-nil victory over Leipzig in mid-week gave life to Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League campaign, but did little to quell concerns surrounding the club’s spotty start to the season. The rocky start means PSG have been unable to take their foot off the gas domestically where, heading into their clash against Bordeaux, they held a slim two-point lead over chasing Lille.

Manager Thomas Tuchel’s side was given a boost with the return of Marco Verratti from injury – the Italian starting at the base of a midfield diamond in a 4-4-2 formation. Up top, PSG elected to go with Kylian Mbappé and Moise Kean, while Neymar slotted into the number ten position. In defense, 18-year-old Timothée Pembélé was given his first start of the season, playing alongside Presnel Kimpembe in central defense.

Bordeaux’s campaign has been defined by a lack of goals; manager Jean Louis Gasset is known for his defensive acumen, but with only ten total goals on the season the new skipper’s side is looking increasingly one dimensional. Hatem Ben Arfa provided the . . .