FC Nantes match review

By: j | September 14th, 2008

In a match just concluding PSG defeated FC Nantes 1-0, moving PSG into third position of Ligue 1. The match featured the debut of Mateja Kežman into the starting grid as striker but unfortunately for much of the affair, the offensive attack was less than threatening. It was very apparent PSG was taking a more defensive route and padlocking the match down and not risking throwing the attack forward.

Six minutes into the match, Nantes’ Guirane N’Daw fouled Guillaume Hoarau in the area and a penalty was awarded. Calmly, Mateja Kežman strode up to take the kick and without a blink of hesitation the ball was in the top left hand corner of the net. While only “a” goal, it was great to see Mateja not only convert the penalty but show the leadership and confidence so needed in his role. As PSG goes forward his sharpshooting abilities are paramount to the clubs success and this was a good step. From that point-on, how do I put this with tact, both ‘keepers were only disturbed a few times. I don’t think Mickaël Landreau or Nantes Jérôme Alonzo will be complaining of stinging hands because truthfully goal scoring opportunities were rare and virtually all shots were astray. Probably the closest chances to draw the match level came twenty minutes after the break when a Loïc Guillon cross into the box was pushed wide by Mamadou Bagayoko. A few minutes later a shot from Thomas Dossevi disturbed Mickaël Landreau slumber and he was forced to make a save. Clément Chantôme was brought-in for Mateja at that stage and the defense net and some quality keep-ball was played. Christian Bekamenga produced another scoring chance a few minutes from time but it was all for naught and the match ended in a workman-like 1-0 victory for PSG.

PSG now turns its attention towards next weeks UEFA Cup match against Kayserispor.

PSG lineup
Mickaël Landreau, Zoumana Camara, Sylvain Armand, Sammy Traore,Ceará, Ludovic Giuly (Fabrice Pancrate 83′), Jérémy Clément, Jérôme Rothen, Stéphane Sessegnon, Mateja Kežman (Clément Chantôme 68′), Guillaume Hoarau
Substitutes not used:
Péguy Luyindula, Grégory Bourillon, Larrys Mabiala, Edel Bete, Younousse Sankhare