The stage is set for an exhilarating clash in the Coupe de France as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) prepares to face USL Dunkerque in the semi-finals on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille. PSG, under the guidance of manager Luis Enrique, aims to secure a spot in the final and continue their pursuit of back-to-back trophies. However, Dunkerque, currently fifth in Ligue 2, has already proven to be a formidable opponent, having eliminated several Ligue 1 teams in their impressive run.
PSG's journey to the semi-finals has been marked by resilience and determination. The capital club advanced past RC Lens in the Round of 64 via a penalty shootout after a dramatic 1-1 draw. Following that, they faced lower-division teams, defeating Espaly, Le Mans, and Stade Briochin to reach this crucial stage. Enrique expressed his respect for Dunkerque's achievements, noting, "We've already analyzed Dunkerque, and I obviously know their manager. They've been on an impressive run in the Coupe de France, knocking out three Ligue 1 teams, including Lille and Brest away."
Indeed, Dunkerque's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. The team has eliminated AJ Auxerre, FCSR Haguenau, and made headlines by defeating LOSC Lille in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in the Round of 16. They continued their impressive form by edging Stade Brestois 3-2 in the quarter-finals. Dunkerque's coach, Luis Castro, has instilled a winning mentality in the squad, emphasizing an attacking style of play. "I like my team to be offensive, to try to attack more than defend. I want them to have the desire to play with the ball," Castro stated. His philosophy has clearly resonated with the players, as they aim to pull off another upset against PSG.
As the match approaches, both teams have their respective lineups and strategies in place. PSG will be without goalkeeper Arnau Tenas, who is still in recovery, and Kang-In Lee, who suffered a left ankle sprain during a recent international match. However, Enrique can count on key players like Presnel Kimpembe and the young talents Senny Mayulu, Ibrahim Mbaye, and Louis Mouquet to step up. The Parisians are currently unbeaten in domestic competitions, and they are looking to maintain that streak against Dunkerque.
On the other hand, Dunkerque enters the match with a mixed bag of results in Ligue 2, having suffered three consecutive defeats in their league campaign. Their recent loss against Bastia (0-2) has raised concerns about their form. Nevertheless, their Coupe de France performances have been stellar, showcasing their ability to rise to the occasion against higher-tier opponents. Dunkerque's players, including Yacine Bammou, are eager to capitalize on their underdog status and challenge PSG fiercely.
Kickoff for this thrilling encounter is scheduled for 21:10, and fans can catch the action live on beIN SPORTS 1 or France 2. The anticipation surrounding the match is palpable, with both teams vying for a place in the final against either Reims or Cannes, who will face off in the other semi-final.
Enrique emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and treating every match as a challenge, regardless of the opponent's division. "Whether our opponents are in Ligue 1, Ligue 2, National, or National 2, we always want to win. We need to live up to our fans' expectations, which involves being highly focused," he remarked. This mentality will be crucial as PSG looks to avoid any potential pitfalls against the determined Dunkerque side.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, all eyes will be on the Stade Pierre-Mauroy, where history could be made. Dunkerque's remarkable journey in the Coupe de France has captured the hearts of many, and they will be looking to add another chapter to their story by taking down one of the giants of French football. Meanwhile, PSG aims to assert their dominance and continue their quest for glory in this prestigious tournament.
With the stakes higher than ever, the excitement is building for what promises to be a gripping semi-final clash. Will PSG continue their pursuit of silverware, or will Dunkerque pull off a stunning upset? Fans will not want to miss a moment of this thrilling encounter.
