The revamped Champions League format, which welcomed four French clubs for the first time, has produced some unexpected storylines. While Paris Saint-Germain were the presumptive favorites to carry the Ligue 1 banner deep into the competition, it’s actually been Brest and Lille who are turning heads with their performances so far.
Brest Making History
Brest, the unlikeliest of the French quartet, currently sit an impressive seventh in the 36-team Champions League table. That puts them on course for a spot in the knockouts, an achievement that would have been unthinkable when the season began.
Their three wins so far, over Salzburg, Sturm Graz and PSV, have come at a cost domestically, with Brest prioritizing their European exploits. But a recent stabilization in Ligue 1 form has allayed any fears of relegation.
“We’re going to play our game and see what happens.”
– Bafodé Diakité, Brest defender, on facing Real Madrid
Next up for Brest is a trip to Shakhtar Donetsk (being hosted in Gelsenkirchen due to the war), followed by a history-making clash with reigning champions Real Madrid. Rather than being daunted, Brest are relishing the chance to host the Spanish giants and continue their unlikely European adventure.
Lille’s Revival
Joining Brest in the top eight are Lille, who after a sluggish start to 2023 domestically have rediscovered their spark. Unbeaten since mid-September, Les Dogues are well placed to return to the Champions League knockouts after last season’s absence.
- Jonathan David leads the attack
- Hákon Haraldsson in fine form with 4 goals in 6 games
A stunning comeback win at Marseille in the Coupe de France, orchestrated by Icelandic midfielder Haraldsson, served notice of Lille’s resilience. They followed that up by coming from behind to beat Nice in the league. Confidence restored, an upset of Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday is not out of the question for Bruno Génésio’s men.
Pressure Mounting on PSG
Paris Saint-Germain’s European struggles have been perhaps the biggest surprise. After defeats to Atlético Madrid and Bayern Munich, the capital club sit 25th, one spot outside the cutoff for the knockouts. Manager Luis Enrique has hinted at “necessary measures” should they not qualify.
One of those measures has been the signing of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from Napoli to boost the attack. But with just 6 goals scored in 6 group games, offensive woes have plagued PSG. Even their domestic form has been inconsistent, with frustrating draws against lesser opponents raising questions.
“We’re not bros, it’s a player-coach relationship.”
– Luis Enrique on his rapport with Ousmane Dembélé
The bright spot has been Ousmane Dembélé’s emergence as PSG’s primary threat, often from a false 9 role. The France international has 5 goals in his last 3 starts to lead the line. But beating Manchester City on Wednesday will require a complete team effort to keep PSG’s hopes alive and avoid an ignominious early exit.
Monaco Stumbles But Still Alive
The fourth French side, Monaco, have seen their strong start fizzle in recent weeks. Winless in 2023, the Monégasques are clinging to 16th place and a spot in the playoffs. Late collapses, like against Benfica and Marseille, have cost precious points.
- Injuries to Folarin Balogun and Breel Embolo have hampered attack
- Unforced errors at the back undoing early defensive strength
But all is not lost for Monaco. While advancing directly to the knockouts as a top 8 side is a tall order, navigating a playoff is still within reach. Positive results against Aston Villa and Inter in the next 10 days could solidify their position and restore lost momentum.
With a month remaining in the group stage, the hopes of France’s four challengers are still very much alive. Brest and Lille have already exceeded expectations and are poised to carry the Ligue 1 banner into the Champions League knockouts. The pressure is on PSG and Monaco to raise their level and join them in the next phase. In this wide open, revamped competition, there’s all to play for heading into the decisive final matchdays.
