Lens remains PSG's closest challenger in the Ligue 1 title race, trailing by six points with only four matches left. The upcoming direct confrontation between the two clubs on May 13 is set to be a pivotal moment. While Paris St-Germain focuses on their Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich, they also aim to secure another domestic crown.
Luis Enrique's side, despite holding a 5-4 lead from the first leg against Bayern, faces a home league fixture against mid-table Lorient. The coach is expected to make numerous changes, resting key players like Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and skipper Marquinhos, while Goncalo Ramos is suspended after his red card in the 3-0 victory at Angers. Achraf Hakimi and back-up goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier are also sidelined with injuries.
A victory for PSG against Lorient, coupled with a defeat for Lens away to Nice, could effectively seal a fifth straight Ligue 1 crown for the Qatar-backed club, their 12th in 14 years. PSG also holds a significant 15-goal difference advantage over Lens, meaning two wins from their final four matches would likely suffice even if Lens secures maximum points from their remaining fixtures.
The crucial meeting with Lens was controversially postponed in early April to allow PSG more rest between their Champions League quarter-final legs against Liverpool. This scheduling decision had previously benefited the Parisians during their last-16 tie against Chelsea.
Lorient, owned by American businessman Bill Foley, who also owns Premier League Bournemouth and NHL side Vegas Golden Knights, has enjoyed a fine season since promotion and previously held PSG to a draw at home earlier this season.
Lens will be determined to keep the title race alive for at least another week, hoping to capitalize on any slip-ups from the league leaders. Behind them, Lyon and Lille are currently in strong positions to claim the final two Champions League qualification spots from Ligue 1 for the next season.
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