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Mbemba and Verratti impress as PSG come off victorious in Le Classique

François Miguel Boudet
Mbemba did not let Mbappe breathe
Mbemba did not let Mbappe breatheProfimedia
If PSG has beaten OM (1-0), it is especially the defensive individualities of Marseille that have impressed on the occasion of this Le Classique at the Parc.

The MVP: Chancel Mbemba

Despite the defeat, the Marseille defender's performance was exceptional. As Kylian Mbappe's personal bodyguard, the former Porto player did not let himself be overwhelmed by the Frenchman's speed, relying on impact in the duel and anticipation, especially as the Parisian striker wanted to break through on his left foot. Offensively, Mbemba produced a classy sequence in the opposition box with an outside control followed by a powerful shot into the top corner, which was deflected by Gigio Donnarumma. It was a great performance that also showed that OM shone more at the back than up front, as did the performance of Pau Lopez, who also came close to perfection. 

The Leader: Marco Verratti

It was thanks to the Italian's high recovery that PSG were finally able to catch OM and Pau Lopez in a state of grace until then. Verratti was in contact with Amine Harit's feet, and he broke the deadlock. In a three-man midfield with Vitinha and Fabian Ruiz, the 'Little Owl' picked up countless balls and almost scored the 2-0 goal, only to be denied by the Spanish keeper. He was also seen close to the box, providing support to Mbappe. An interesting contribution and to be considered by Christophe Galtier. 

The Good Surprise: Fabian Ruiz

With the return of the 4-man defence, PSG had an extra midfield to block the Phocaean initiatives, particularly those of Matteo Guendouzi. The former Neapolitan took a while to get into his game but finally got better as the game went on, not hesitating to project himself and try his luck from distance, although without much success. I'm not sure I'll be able to do that, but I'm not sure I'll be able to do that. 

The Disappointment: Samuel Gigot

Gigot came on in place of Eric Bailly at the end of the first half to compensate for the injured Ivorian and committed a foul as useless as unforgivable for Marseille, who did not need to be outnumbered to finish the game. His tackle on Neymar 45 meters from the goal, was not dangerous in absolute terms, but the excess of commitment, the lack of discernment and the absence of control only deserved a direct red card. This is his second one this season and this one won't be easily forgotten.