Ligue 1 Week 1: PSG Stumbles, Rennes Rocks, and a Jinx Finally Broken

The Ligue 1 season got off to a bang on a weekend that saw title favorites drop points, a harsh welcoming for newly promoted sides, and coaching seats beginning to heat up. The following is a summary of this weekend’s action.

The Contenders

PSG created the largest buzz this summer with new investors, big signings, and huge expectations, but their season started slowly as they fell at home to Lorient 1-0. It goes without saying that PSG did not play well in their home opener. The loss has already fueled speculation on coach Antoine Kombouaré and how long he will remain with PSG.

PSG fans should not worry too much, because it takes time for new pieces to mesh in a system. There is plenty of talent, but the talent needs to be familiar with each other. The players must also realize every team is gunning for them and will bring their best when playing the capital club. Expect there to be growing pains the first half of the season, as PSG try to find their flow.

Marseille grabbed a late equalizer against Sochaux to earn a point in an exciting match that ended 2-2. Lucho Gonzalez put all transfer talk aside to put up a stellar display including the opening goal for OM. Marvin Martin of Sochaux showed why he has been attracting interest across Europe with his goal and overall contribution to the match. Vincent Nogueira put Sochaux ahead before Loic Remy drew OM level 15 minutes before time.

Remi Guarde’s debut as Lyon manager went well as Lyon easily handled Nice 3-1. Lopez, Gomis, and Gonalons all tallied for Lyon after Anthony Mounier opened with a strike in the sixth minute. Lyon has to be pleased with their start after standing pat this summer.

Lille began their title defence with a 1-1 draw with Nancy. It was Jean Fernandez’s first game in charge of Nancy after leaving Auxerre this summer, and his trademark defensive style held Lille’s potent attack at bay for most of the match. Nancy were lucky to find themselves level due to a Lille own goal, but had done enough throughout the match to earn the point.

The New Boys

Evian was the only promoted club to earn a point as they tied Brest 2-2. Evian will be kicking themselves down the road for not killing off the game after opening a 2 goal lead.

Toulouse welcomed Ajaccio to Ligue 1 with a 2-0 beating that was worse than the scoreline suggested.

Dijon felt the full force of a Ligue 1 competition after suffering a 5-1 drubbing by Rennes.

The Rest of the Pack

Montepellier took care of new look Auxerre 3-1 with two second half goals to earn three full points on the road. Auxerre adjusting to a more open style of play after Fernandez left, for Nancy looked good for many parts of the first half, but did not have enough to hold off Montepellier at home.

Saint Etienne finally broke their 20-year opening day jinx by beating Bordeaux 2-1. A Cianni own goal, followed by a Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang “goal” (oops I tried to cross it but it went into the net) was enough to earn Les Verts their first win in week one since the elder Bush was promising no new taxes. Despite the lack of style points, the Saint Etienne victory was a cause for great celebration at the Fontaine household, at least for this week.

The Week Ahead

Games of note for Week 2 include a trip to Paris for Rennes as they try to add to PSG’s slow start. Lille will travel to Montpellier, and I will be watching as Saint Etienne travel to Nancy in an effort to take their winning streak to two games.

As we get further into the season, I will begin covering top scorers and table position.

Au Revoir