.jpg)
The Coupe de France returns with an exciting Round of 16 fixture as third-tier side Le Mans takes on Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at the MMArena this Tuesday. The reigning champions are aiming to extend their domestic dominance, while the underdogs, Le Mans, dream of pulling off a historic upset.
Road to the Round of 16
PSG secured their place in this round with a hard-fought 4-2 win over Espaly-Saint-Marcel, a game that saw them come from behind before securing victory with late goals from Bradley Barcola and Goncalo Ramos. The Parisians remain a force in this competition, having lifted the Coupe de France trophy seven times in the past eleven seasons.
On the other hand, Le Mans’ journey has been dramatic. After overcoming Vannes (2-1), Marmande (7-0), and Saint-Colomban Locmine (4-0), they were pushed to the limit by Valenciennes, winning on penalties (4-3) after a 1-1 draw in regulation.
Team News & Possible Lineups
Le Mans Team News: The hosts will be without key players Edwin Quashie (ankle), Erwan Cola (back), and Arnold Vula (hamstring), who are all sidelined. However, Antoine Rabillard, who has four goals in five Coupe de France games, will lead the attack alongside Dame Gueye.
Le Mans Predicted Lineup:
Hatfout; Burlet, Lamgahez, Yohou, Mouen, Ribelin; Bernardeau, Lauray, Rossignol; Rabillard, Gueye.
PSG Team News: Paris Saint-Germain will miss Warren Zaire-Emery and Ibrahim Mbaye due to ankle injuries, while Joao Neves is out with a foot issue. Ousmane Dembele, in red-hot form with back-to-back hat-tricks, may be rested for this game. New signing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia could make his Coupe de France debut.
PSG Predicted Lineup:
Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Vitinha, Ruiz, Mayulu; Doue, Ramos, Kvaratskhelia.
Match Prediction: Le Mans 1-3 PSG
Despite Le Mans’ strong home form and momentum, PSG’s sheer quality and depth should see them through to the quarter-finals. Expect the Parisians to dominate possession and secure a comfortable victory.
JOIN the Big Boys Soccer Talks COMMUNITY!
Stay ahead of all the latest football news, exclusive insights, match previews, and transfer updates by joining the Big Boys Soccer Talks community. Don’t miss out on in-depth analysis and exclusive football deals! CLICK HERE to join
