In a match that marked the 14th round of Ligue 1, Paris Saint-Germain faced Auxerre in a game that Luis Enrique’s side desperately needed to win.
However, the victory eluded them due to Auxerre’s resilient defense and a standout performance from their goalkeeper, Donovan Léon.
Despite PSG’s dominance, the match ended in a goalless draw, leaving the Parisian side with more questions than answers.
Dominance without a breakthrough
PSG entered the match with what was close to an ideal starting XI, yet the team struggled to capitalize on its opportunities.
The first half was marked by PSG’s control of possession and multiple attacking efforts, particularly through their flanks. Achraf Hakimi and Kang-in Lee on the right, along with Bradley Barcola and Nuno Mendes on the left, consistently pushed forward.
⌛️ Fin de partie et partage des points entre Auxerrois et Parisiens (0-0).
🔴 ALLEZ PARIS 🔵#AJAPSG I @Ligue1 pic.twitter.com/z47xCY5d5l
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) December 6, 2024
However, the final product was lacking, with Gonçalo Ramos appearing isolated and ineffective as the central striker.
Auxerre, on the other hand, focused entirely on defending, rarely venturing into PSG’s half. The home side managed only one shot on target throughout the 90 minutes, highlighting their limited attacking ambition.
Second-Half adjustments bring energy
Luis Enrique made key substitutions in the second half, bringing on Ousmane Dembélé, Kolo Muani, and Désiré Doué.
The changes injected energy and creativity into PSG’s attack, leading to a flurry of chances. Despite these efforts, Auxerre’s goalkeeper, Donovan Léon, remained unbeatable, pulling off several impressive saves to keep the score level.
PSG dominated every statistical category, with 73% possession compared to Auxerre’s 27%. The Parisians registered 25 shots, 11 of which were on target, while Auxerre managed only six attempts, with a solitary shot on goal.
Yet, for all their efforts, PSG couldn’t find the decisive breakthrough, leaving them with their second consecutive draw in Ligue 1.
PSG thinks about the Champions League
This result is a setback for PSG as they continue to struggle with consistency in domestic competitions.
With only a few days before their crucial UEFA Champions League clash against Salzburg on December 10, Luis Enrique must quickly address the team’s inefficiencies in front of goal.
The Parisian giants will need to rediscover their scoring touch if they hope to progress in Europe and maintain their domestic title ambitions.
