Lens and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on December 22, 2024, presents an intriguing clash of contrasting forms and historical narratives. PSG enters the match as reigning champions, buoyed by a recent Ligue 1 victory over Monaco, while Lens has shown resilience with seven points accrued from their last three league matches . Despite PSG's dominance in recent encounters—winning their last four matches against Lens—historical precedents suggest that Lens is capable of upsetting the odds in knockout competitions like this one .
Kylian Mbappe, Manuel Ugarte and Danilo Pereira last season, PSG sit 10 points clear at the summit of the Ligue 1 standings after 16 games. 
They added Joao Neves, Desire Doue, William Pacho and Matvey Safonov to their ranks, while the likes of Bradley Barcola and Warren Zaire-Emery have starred this term. 
Having splashed the cash in recent years on transfers involving Neymar and Lionel Messi, PSG are now reaping the rewards for trusting their academy graduates. 
Left-back Nuno Mendes is ruled out with a hamstring injury, while is it highly unlikely that goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma will feature here after receiving multiple stitches following Wilfried Singo's studs to his face on Wednesday. So Matvey Safonov would deputise in goal.
Lens possible starting lineup: Samba; Frankowski, Danso, Khusanov, Medina, Chavez; Thomasson, El Aynaoui; Pereira da Costa, Nzola, Zaroury
Paris Saint-Germain possible starting lineup: Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Joao Neves; Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz; Dembele, Doue, Barcola
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In terms of predictions, analysts generally lean towards a narrow victory for PSG. One prediction suggests a scoreline of 2-1 in favor of the Parisians, citing their consistent performance against Lens alongside the latter's injury concerns affecting key players such as Said and Satriano (Dupare, 2024b). However, it is essential to consider that both teams have faced challenges with player availability due to injuries or international commitments. This uncertainty may significantly influence the match dynamics and overall outcomes.
PSG has previously defeated Lens this season and is on a four-game winning streak against them, which may be enough to maintain their impressive unbeaten run in domestic play.
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