Paris Saint-Germain played out a goalless draw against Clermont four days ahead of their UEFA Champions League trip to Newcastle United. Luis Enrique’s side suffered their third draw since the start of the Ligue 1 season, passing up an opportunity to temporarily take top spot.
It was an open match between Pascal Gastien’s side and Les Parisiens, with Kylian Mbappé starting the match instead of being rested by Enrique. The France captain’s effort on the swivel turn in the 32nd minute wasn’t enough to test Clermont keeper Diaw, had continued to have ample opportunity to find the back of the net. Mbappé got on the end of crosses from Randal Kolo Muani, Ousmane Dembélé, and Achraf Hakimi, and even had a chance in additional time to take the lead.
Clermont had their own chances however, with Guinluigi Donnarumma needed on hand to save Shamar Nicholson’s and Yohann Magnin’s respective strikes in the first half before parrying away a powerful long-range effort from Konaté.
A defeat for PSG would have been harsh, but they were dominant in possession (67%) – however not managing to convert their missed chances. It is the first time in the Qatari era at PSG that after 7 matches they are goalless on two outings. Luis Enrique’s side now turn their attention to a trip to Newcastle United in the Champions League.
GFFN | George Boxall
