Paris Saint-Germain is set for a thrilling encounter as they face Dunkerque in the Coupe de France semi-final on April 1, 2025. The match will take place at the Decathlon Arena - Stade Pierre-Mauroy, kicking off at 20:10 GMT. PSG, fresh off a commanding 6-1 victory against St-Etienne, is eager to continue their pursuit of a treble this season. Meanwhile, Dunkerque, currently sitting fifth in Ligue 2, poses a significant challenge after eliminating Ligue 1 teams like Brest and Lille in previous rounds.
PSG's recent triumph over St-Etienne not only solidified their position at the top of Ligue 1 but also set the stage for this crucial cup clash. Despite Monaco's recent win delaying PSG's league title celebration, the Parisians are now focused on the task at hand: advancing to the Coupe de France final. Coach Luis Enrique's squad is expected to field a strong lineup, with key players like Gianluigi Donnarumma and Marquinhos returning to action. However, they will be without midfielder Lee Kang-in, who is sidelined due to a foot injury sustained during international duty.
Dunkerque, the underdogs in this match, come into the semi-final with a mixed bag of league performances, having lost their last three matches. Nonetheless, they have shown their resilience by knocking out formidable opponents in the cup, including a thrilling 3-2 victory over Brest. Dunkerque's head coach, Luis Castro, is aware of the challenge ahead but believes in his team's ability to surprise. "We have to handle the pressure and focus on our game plan," he stated in a pre-match interview.
As the anticipation builds, fans are eager to see how both teams will approach this high-stakes encounter. PSG's recent form suggests they are favorites, especially after their 7-0 demolition of Stade Briochin in the quarter-finals. However, Dunkerque's ability to upset higher-ranked teams cannot be overlooked. The Seasiders are determined to make history and reach the final, knowing they have nothing to lose.
The match will be broadcast live on Bet 365 in the UK and FOX Sports 2 in the US, allowing fans across the globe to witness this exciting cup tie. As the kickoff approaches, both teams are finalizing their strategies and lineups. Dunkerque's potential starting XI includes goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen, who has been solid in the cup, while PSG is likely to feature a mix of seasoned stars and fresh legs, including Ousmane Dembele and Achraf Hakimi.
In terms of tactics, PSG will look to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities, leveraging their attacking prowess. Dembélé, who scored in the last match, will be key in stretching Dunkerque's defense. On the other hand, Dunkerque will aim to defend resolutely and capitalize on any counter-attacking opportunities. The presence of striker Gaetan Courtet, who has been in good form, could pose a threat to PSG's backline.
As the teams warm up, the atmosphere is electric, and fans from both sides are ready to cheer on their squads. PSG's supporters are hopeful for another resounding victory, while Dunkerque's loyal fans believe in the power of an upset. With both teams hungry for success, this semi-final promises to deliver excitement and drama.
As kick-off approaches, the stakes could not be higher for both teams. PSG is determined to maintain their winning momentum and secure a spot in the final, while Dunkerque is eager to prove their mettle against one of France's footballing giants. With the match about to begin, all eyes will be on the pitch as these two sides battle for a place in the Coupe de France final.
