Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw against Auxerre on Friday, marking their second consecutive domestic stalemate.
This follows a damaging 1-0 defeat to Bayern Munich at the end of last month in the UEFA Champions League, further compounding the mounting pressure on coach Luis Enrique and his squad.
Despite being unbeaten in Ligue 1 and maintaining a healthy eight-point lead over second-placed Monaco, PSG’s inability to convert chances into goals remains a significant concern.
The club’s attacking woes were evident again as they have now scored just once in their last three outings, with the failure to find the back of the net against Auxerre intensifying the scrutiny on their offensive setup.
“We gave everything, and I have nothing to reproach my players for,” said Enrique after the match. “I am not going to criticise them, even internally.”
While the coach’s support for his players was clear, it remains to be seen how long this will be enough to pacify critics, especially with PSG’s attacking struggles showing no sign of abating.
One key factor in their continued difficulty has been the lack of a consistent goal-scoring threat. The return of Portugal’s Goncalo Ramos, who had been sidelined for over three months with an injury, has not yet revitalized PSG’s offensive options.
Ramos, along with other attacking figures like Achraf Hakimi and substitute Randal Kolo Muani, had several opportunities to break the deadlock, but were thwarted by Auxerre’s goalkeeper, Donovan Leon.
Leon made several crucial saves, denying Ramos and Hakimi, and even stopping Kolo Muani’s late attempt to secure all three points for the visitors.
PSG’s frustration in front of goal was further compounded when Vitinha struck the woodwork in the second half, a reminder of the team’s ongoing problems in clinical finishing. The result was disappointing, especially given Auxerre’s current form in Ligue 1.
The promoted side, enjoying a fine return to the top flight, sit just outside the European qualification spots and were resolute in defending their home turf.
“We are pleased with the point. It feels like three,” said Auxerre coach Christophe Pelissier, reflecting on his team’s solid performance. “It’s always difficult to play against a team like PSG, but the players were exceptional.”
The draw means that PSG remains in a strong position domestically but will need to address their attacking inefficiencies ahead of a crucial Champions League clash against Red Bull Salzburg on Tuesday.
With only four points from five group-stage games, PSG’s hopes of advancing to the knockout rounds hinge on securing at least two wins from their final three fixtures.
Enrique’s side will need to rediscover their cutting edge quickly, as the pressure mounts both in Europe and on the domestic front.
With Monaco and Marseille closing the gap in Ligue 1, PSG’s pursuit of a third consecutive French title could be threatened if their attacking issues persist.
Meanwhile, Auxerre, currently enjoying their top-flight resurgence, will aim to build on their positive performance as they continue their impressive season.
Further down the table, Lille made strides to challenge the top spots, moving level on points with Monaco and Marseille after a 3-1 victory over Brest.
Canada striker Jonathan David’s brace, including a penalty, was enough to see Lille claim all three points at home. Lille will now turn their focus to their upcoming Champions League fixture against Sturm Graz on Wednesday.
