PSG take a big step forward in the Ligue 1 title race but was it fair?

"The decision to postpone PSG's game was one agreed upon by all parties, one taken to aid their preparations for their second leg against Chelsea, and one not without precedent. The same Ligue 1 fixture was postponed last season so PSG could focus on their European tie against Aston Villa. However, the context was different. PSG were essentially home and hosed by this point, whereas this season they are in a much tighter title race with Lens."

"Lens have run PSG closest in Ligue 1 in recent seasons; three seasons ago, under Franck Haise, they finished just one point behind Les Parisiens. A win over Lorient on Saturday would have taken them back to the top of the league at PSG's expense. Lorient, however, are not rollovers. They have lost at home just once this season, and they have beaten Monaco and drawn against PSG at the Moustoir."

"Lens' failure to beat Lorient is theirs alone, but the failure to ensure fair competition lies with the authorities. PSG would have rotated their squad this weekend, as many clubs in European competition do. They have the depth to do so, as they reminded Chelsea, bringing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia off the bench to devastating effect."

PSG benefited from a postponed Ligue 1 match against Nantes to prepare for their Champions League tie against Chelsea, a decision made by mutual agreement with the French football federation. This postponement occurred while PSG engaged in a competitive title race with Lens, contrasting with last season when PSG held a commanding lead. Lens lost 2-1 to Lorient on Saturday, missing an opportunity to reclaim top spot. Lorient, despite being relegated favorites, have performed impressively this season, including victories over Monaco and draws against PSG. The postponement raises questions about competitive fairness, as PSG's squad depth allows rotation while competitors face fixture congestion.

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