Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) demonstrated impressive tactical flexibility in their victory over Marseille, adapting their approach to control possession, exploit defensive weaknesses, and remain defensively solid. Their ability to shift between attacking and defensive structures allowed them to dominate the game effectively.

Balanced Formation and Positional Adaptability

PSG set up with a dynamic formation that transitioned between a 4-3-3 in attack and a more compact 4-4-2 when defending. The midfield trio of Vitinha, Manuel Ugarte, and Warren Zaïre-Emery provided balance, seamlessly adjusting their roles to maintain control.

Exploiting Wide Areas and Overloads

With Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes pushing high from full-back positions, PSG created width to stretch Marseille’s defensive line. This allowed Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé to cut inside, combining with midfield runners to overload central areas and create scoring opportunities.

Pressing and Defensive Structure

PSG applied a well-coordinated press, forcing Marseille into errors when building from the back. The front three pressed aggressively, while the midfield stayed compact, cutting off passing lanes and regaining possession quickly. This limited Marseille’s ability to transition effectively.

Quick Transitions and Counter-Attacking Threat

Despite controlling possession, PSG remained dangerous on the counter. With Mbappé’s pace and Dembélé’s dribbling ability, they capitalized on turnovers, launching rapid counter-attacks that unsettled Marseille’s defense.

Game Management and Tactical Discipline

As the match progressed, PSG adjusted their tempo, controlling possession to limit Marseille’s attacking momentum. Late substitutions reinforced the defensive setup, ensuring the team maintained their shape and secured a controlled victory.