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Following the international break, Ligue 1 is back in action with PSG hosting Nantes at the Parc des Princes. The league leaders will be looking for another win to extend their massive lead at the top of the table.
PSG sit comfortably at the top of Ligue 1, having won 11 out of their 13 league matches so far. The Parisian team have showcased that they are head and shoulders above the rest and have a 10-point lead over second-placed Lens.
Despite their might, PSG are far from being at their best. It was evident from their last match against Bordeaux that they won 3-2. They have won three out of their last five league games but Mauricio Pochettino's men have struggled to cement their dominance.
Meanwhile, Nantes are in 10th place in the French top flight with 18 points from 13 matches. They have been inconsistent this season, having won five, lost five and drawn three in Ligue 1 so far.
On that note, let's take a look at
Top five predictions for PSG vs Nantes
#5 Lionel Messi to start the game
Lionel Messi has missed PSG's last few matches as he was sidelined due to an injury. But the Argentine was called up for his national team during the international break. He even featured for Argentina in the World Cup Qualifiers. Fortunately for the Ligue 1 giants, Messi seems to be back without any problems.
Messi has failed to fit into Mauricio Pochettino's side this campaign. The 34-year-old has shown glimpses of his old form against RB Leipzig in the Champions League by scoring a brace.
However, he is yet to open his account in the French top flight. Pochettino will hope that a fit Messi remains available for the tie and hopefully can be the difference maker in the game.
#4 Nantes to take a defensive approach
The inconsistent Nantes side have major concerns when they take on PSG this weekend. They have leaked 16 goals in 13 matches which highlights their unorganized defensive structure and poor lapses in defense. Nantes' defenders face an uphill battle when they face free scoring PSG forwards.
PSG have assembled a dangerous attacking trio and are known for dislodging defenses effortlessly. Neymar may be left out against Nantes due to an injury. If so, Nantes will still have a huge task of keeping the likes of Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Angel Di Maria quiet for 90 minutes.
Nantes is likely to take a defensive approach, where they will try to absorb PSG attacks and hit them on the counters.
#3 Sergio Ramos to make his debut
Following Sergio Ramos' contract expiry at Real Madrid this summer, PSG did their utmost to secure the services of the player. The French giants signed the Spanish legend for free, hoping that he will elevate their defense with his expertise.
Unfortunately, Ramos has not even been fit enough to make his debut. He suffered a long-term injury during his tenure at Real Madrid and has not been fit since. Considering the high wages, the transfer of Ramos to PSG has been a disaster so far.
While there are reports that PSG might terminate Ramos' contract, the good news is that the centre-back has fully recovered now. Pochettino will be the decision maker on whether he will start against Nantes. Ramos will likely get a few minutes on the pitch, making his debut for PSG.
#2 Nantes will fail to stop Kylian Mbappe
Although Messi and Neymar are struggling to make an impact, PSG talisman Kylian Mbappe has been firing on all cylinders. Mbappe singlehandedly won numerous points for the Parisian side with his efficiency in front of goal.
Mbappe has showcased his skills in deciding the results of a tie countless times in his career. The Frenchman continues to dispatch opposing defenders in the most ruthless way. He often helps his side break defenses with his runs, passes and trickery.
Mbappe has racked up seven goals and 11 assists across all competitions. Out of PSG's 29 goals in Ligue 1, he has directly played a part in 12 so far this campaign. His importance to the Ligue 1 giants is priceless, as evidenced through statistics and impact.
Considering his form, it is likely the Nantes defender will not be enough to stop Mbappe from finding the net.
#1 PSG will make a statement against Nantes
PSG have assembled the best squad in Europe with the presence of some world beaters in their ranks. Undoubtedly, they have the upper hand going into the tie as they look for another big victory to demonstrate their might. Pochettino's side will be hoping to attain their first European glory in the club's history.
While they have the best squad on paper, PSG are far from perfect. Pochettino will be wary of any banana skin with a crucial Champions League fixture looming around the horizon against Manchester City. Nantes can cause an upset on their day just as Rennes and PSG will have to be on their toes.
However, it is likely that PSG will be boosted by the return of Messi and Ramos. Our prediction is that the strong favorites will make a statement with a big victory against Nantes.
