Ligue 1 2019/20: Paris Saint-Germain vs Bordeaux – tactical analysis

After a disappointing show in the Champions League, Paris Saint-Germain looked to regain their confidence through Ligue 1 match-up versus Bordeaux. Coming into the match, Bordeaux was unbeaten in their last five games across all competitions, and the encounter promised to be a good test for PSG as they continue to reintegrate Neymar back into the side.

Although PSG bossed the opening 15 minutes, it was Bordeaux who drew first blood when Ui-Jo Hwang punished PSG for some sloppy defending on a corner kick. PSG struck back via Edinson Cavani in the 25th minute and then appeared to take a one-goal lead into the break when Marquinhos scored in stoppage time, but a misplayed clearance by Sergio Rico saw the first half finish 2-2.

Bordeaux came out the stronger side to begin the second half, but PSG were eventually able to reassert their dominance through a Marquinhos goal in the 63rd minute. Kylian Mbappé then added a fourth six minutes later to give PSG a two-goal lead. Bordeaux struck back through Rubén Pardo with seven minutes remaining, but it was little more than a consolation goal as PSG opened a 13-point advantage atop Ligue 1.

This tactical analysis will examine the tactics of PSG and Bordeaux and provide analysis as to why PSG prevailed 4-3.

Lineups

With Neymar back in the side, Thomas Tuchel opted to begin the match in a 4-4-2 formation. Juan Bernat, Presnel Kimpembe, Thiago Silva, and Thilo Kehrer marshalled the backline with Marquinhos and Marco Veratti shielding them as a double pivot. The flanks featured Ángel Di María on the right and Neymar on the left, while Edinson Cavani joined top-scorer Kylian Mbappé in the forward line.

In an attempt to limit PSG’s attacking arsenal, Bordeaux began the match in a 5-4-1 formation. Loris Benito, Pablo, and Laurent Koscielny started at centre back with Youssouf Sabaly and Enock Kwateng stationed at left and right wing-back respectively. In midfield, Bordeaux started Samuel Kalu, Toma Bašić, Otávio, and Ui-Jo Hwang, and Nicolas de Préville rounded out the side as the lone striker.