PSG lose 1-0 to Lens in Ligue 1 opener

 

PSG’ s title defence started with a 1- 0 defeat away to Lens – the Champions League runners - up missing seven first -team players on Thursday.

Kylian Mbappe , Neymar, Angel Di Maria, Keylor Navas and Mauro Icardi were among those absent as PSG succumbed to Ignatius Ganago ’ s 57th -minute goal following an error from goalkeeper Marcin Bulka , AS reports.

PSG managed just one shot on target across 90 minutes , despite 78. 1 per cent possession , and head coach Tuchel said he was not surprised by the result .

“ I don’ t think we could have done any better, ” Tuchel told Canal+ . “ I was happy with the first half we had. We controlled the game completely, and we had possession .

“ We struggled to create scoring chances today. No opportunities ? Yes, I agree . But we have a small group , and we are missing the players who make the difference.

“ With a young team , we made a decisive mistake and we couldn’ t take advantage of their mistakes. A draw is the best we could have hoped for . ”

While PSG were in action, speculation regarding Roma and Italy full- back Alessandro Florenzi intensified .

According to reports , Florenzi is set to join PSG on loan with an option to buy as the French powerhouse look to replace right -back Thomas Meunier , who moved to Borussia Dortmund .

Asked about Florenzi post- match , Tuchel – who dismissed a move for Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi – said : “ I hope that will be resolved . I am very optimistic for him . ”