Montpellier, France – PSG, rebuilt this offseason with more match Ligue 1 undefeated streak to season game in France.
Despite the offseason makeover, PSG lost its first match of the season. But as the team has found some chemistry, the spending spree has rewarded the club in the last six matches with four wins and two draws.
Although Montpellier wasn't expected to be among PSG's challengers, the Paris club faces an important match this weekend at the Stade de la Mosson.
And after a 2-1 win over Nice, a match that saw all three goals come from the penalty spot at the Parc des Princes midweek, PSG manager Antoine Kombouare believes his side is ready for the test.
"This was a great win secured in difficult circumstances. But it's great to have lads who are committed and who fight to the death. Getting the three points was the best preparation for the trip to Montpellier," Kombouare said.
PSG is among four squads level on 14 points behind Montpellier, the lone club with five wins through seven weeks.
Montpellier finished 14th and just three points above the relegation zone last season, but the club has been the surprise in France so far this season.
With only one loss so far, a 2-1 setback at Lyon, Montpellier has shown it can stick around near the top all season. But a win over PSG this weekend would be another statement, and another confidence booster for the club.
Remy Cabella, Marco Estrada and John Utaka scored in the first half to spark a 3-1 win over Ajaccio midweek, and with Montpellier returning home - where it's won all three matches this season - three more points are within reach.
"We've played three matches in the last week and we've taken four points from a possible six on the road. Now we can prepare for our clash with PSG in peace and quiet," Montpellier coach Rene Girard said.
On Saturday, defending champion Lille - which lost to Montpellier earlier this season - has tied its last three matches in all competitions ahead of its home battle with Lorient, while Bordeaux will look for its second win of the season at Lyon.
Marseille won its first of the season midweek, and coach Didier Deschamps said it was "the best medicine for the situation we've found ourselves," ahead of a trip to Valenciennes on Saturday.
In Saturday's other matches, Evian hosts Caen, Nice hosts Dijon, and Toulouse hosts winless Nancy. On Sunday, second-place Rennes hosts St Etienne, Auxerre hosts Sochaux, and winless Brest hosts Ajaccio.
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