Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is set to face AS Monaco this Sunday, aiming to secure its first trophy of the season at the French Champions Trophy held at Stadium 974 in Doha, Qatar. This match not only marks the traditional curtain-raiser for the French football season but also emphasizes Qatar's increasing influence on French football.
Historically, the Champions Trophy has been hosted overseas, with this year’s event reflecting the growing ties between French football and the Gulf state. Originally slated to be celebrated in Beijing on August 8 to mark 60 years of diplomatic relations between France and China, the match was scrapped by Chinese authorities, similar to the cancellation experienced last year with plans for Thailand. The previous season saw the event return to Paris, where PSG triumphed over Toulouse. With logistical difficulties surrounding the original venues, Qatar presented its capabilities and became the chosen host for this year's fixture.
The French league (LFP), facing financial strains after accepting reduced domestic television rights for Ligue 1 last year, was compelled to accept Qatar’s proposition. The league indicated, "The Doha option was the most favorable solution for the date, benefiting both the LFP and the two teams involved." This highlights how financial aspects and strategic partnerships can redefine sporting traditions.
Stadium 974, utilized during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, is set to welcome both teams on Sunday. PSG has garnered significant support across the region, bolstered by the ownership of Qatar Sports Investments since 2011, which turned the club from being somewhat of an underdog to the dominant force in French football.
PSG's prowess is evident, having secured ten Trophée des Champions titles out of the last eleven events. The match against Monaco is particularly interesting as Monaco, having been the Ligue 1 runners-up last season, stands as the final hurdle for PSG as they seek their 11th Champions Trophy title. Previously, PSG bested Monaco 4-2 during Ligue 1 play just before the mid-season break, reinforcing their status as favorites going forward.
PSG's President, Nasser al-Khelaifi, who also serves on the board of directors of the LFP, has helped steer the club's ambitious objectives. His vision, partnered with the financial backing from Qatar, has effectively reshaped PSG’s competitiveness on both the domestic and European stages.
To encourage attendance, PSG has offered their fans attractive travel packages, including flights, accommodations, and tickets for approximately 100 euros. Yet, the club's ultras, known for their passionate support, have elected not to participate due to the significant distance and logistical challenges posed by traveling from Paris to Doha.
Historically, PSG has dominated finals against Monaco; both teams have faced each other multiple times for national titles. The Champs Trophy has often felt like PSG’s playground, with past encounters favoring the Parisians. During its resurgence, PSG has clinched victories not just at the Champions Trophy but also during the Coupe de la Ligue and Coupe de France tournaments. Their record includes decisive wins: 4-1 and 3-0, demonstrating the gulf between the two clubs on this grand stage.
Monaco has managed to lift the trophy four times since its inception but has not triumphed over PSG since 1985 when they secured the Coupe de France. Their recent matches tell the story of disparity – they face both historical pressure and current momentum shifted decidedly toward the Parisian side.
Both teams are preparing mentally and physically for this Sunday’s showdown. PSG coach Luis Enrique had shared his thoughts on the match during the team's flight to Doha, expressing optimism and confidence: "This is like a home game for us." With the stadium and the surrounding environment likely to be saturated with PSG supporters due to the substantial Qatari investment, it seems the venue will heavily favor the Parisian outfit.
AS Monaco arrives with aspirations to break the recent trend – aiming to capture their first trophy since 2000. They bring hopes of redemption against their formidable rivals, but the odds appear stacked against them. PSG’s dominant strike force and seasoned experience could prove overwhelming.
The stage is set for what promises to be not only a clash for silverware but also one steeped in historical significance and regional pride. Will AS Monaco rise to the occasion and claim victory, or will PSG march toward another title as they strengthen their claim to French football dominance? The answer awaits fans this Sunday at 11:20 AM ET, live and exclusively on beIN SPORTS. Don’t miss this thrilling encounter!