Paris Saint-Germain: What We Learned from the Chelsea Game

Sunday night was a tasty match up of two well-financed clubs. On paper, the game had many storylines outside of the game on the pitch. These storylines would have taken center stage if this would have been something outside of a preseason friendly.

While neither team was at full strength, there were still many key players who took part for both sides. This allowed anyone watching to get a feel for how the teams will shape up this coming season. Despite the absence of Ibrahimovic, Silva, Motta and Sirigu, PSG showed many positives against a talented European power in the form of Chelsea.

Ezequiel Lavezzi was very active going forward. Even though he missed an opportunity to put PSG ahead early, Lavezzi made several moves with and without the ball that put a lot of pressure on the defense. With the ability PSG has to distribute the ball, Lavezzi's runs will unlock opposing defenses creating space for Ibra, Nene and Pastore.

PSG did a good job through most of the match closing down the opposition. It is apparent that Ancelotti wants to pressure up the field. This type of pressure will result in winning the ball in positions that will create scoring chances. Once Thiago Silva is integrated into the back four, PSG will have the presence at the back that will help protect against teams breaking pat the pressure into the open spaces between the midfield and defense.

Another positive from PSG was the control of the ball. PSG enjoyed a great deal of possession in this match despite the absence of the previously mentioned players. The ball control led to several interlocking plays with exchanges between multiple players. The timing and location of many of these passes became sloppy at times, but being this is still preseason, it is to be expected.

PSG brought on many young players during the second half. Newly signed Marco Verratti was very composed in the midfield. He also showed good technical ability and looked very much in command of what he was doing. His first impression was a good one and he could very well be a key component to what PSG is looking to accomplish the next few seasons.

Alphonse Areola took over the goalkeeping duties for the second half and has the looks of a future star. The young keeper showed good athletic ability and technique. He had solid command of the box and was left no chance to stop Chelsea's equalizer late in the game. A loan spell for Areola is probably in the cards to continue his growth since Sirigu and Douchez are in front of him.

Overall it was a solid preseason performance against a top-level squad. There were some sloppy moments and mistakes, but Ancelotti should be pleased with what he has seen so far.