The magic of France's oldest domestic cup competition has been missing this season, with few upsets or dramatic turns to excite the fans. However, Paris FC have thrown a wrench into the works by upsetting their arch-rivals Paris Saint-Germain in the Coupe de France.
In a league match earlier in the week, PSG comfortably beat Paris FC 2-1, and many pundits expected them to steamroll their way through the competition once again. But as is often the case with football, things don't quite go according to plan, and Paris FC's derby day win has given hope to fans that this season's Coupe de France might just be worth watching.
The problem for PSG is that they've become too reliant on winning big in European competitions and domestic leagues. They seem to have taken their foot off the gas when it comes to the Cup de France, and it shows in their lack of excitement and passion. Their manager Luis Enrique has even been forced to wish Paris FC "all the best for the rest of the competition", a testament to just how far behind they are.
Meanwhile, Paris FC's win over PSG has given them a much-needed confidence boost. They've been struggling in Ligue 1, but their victory has shown that they're capable of beating some of the top teams in France. It's a welcome change from the usual dominance that PSG exhibit, and it raises questions about just how much better they truly are.
The Coupe de France has become a serious business for clubs up and down the pyramid due to financial constraints. With TV deals being drastically reduced, every little victory counts. Paris FC may not be able to make up for their shortfall in Ligue 1, but their deep run in the Cup could bring in some much-needed revenue.
PSG's surprise elimination has also sent shockwaves through the football world. Their first defeat at this stage since 2014 came after a tiring week that included a trip to Kuwait. It raises questions about just how vulnerable they truly are, and whether anyone can stop them from winning Ligue 1 again.
For those who love French football, the return of sporting intrigue in the Coupe de France is welcome compensation for its lack of romance this season. The knockout tournament format brings out the best in teams, and with PSG eliminated, the competition is suddenly looking more exciting than ever.
As we move forward into the next round of the Cup, there are a few storylines that are worth keeping an eye on. Will Strasbourg continue to impress as they bid for their first major trophy? Can Lyon's new signing Endrick make a big impact and help his team win some silverware? And what about Marseille, who are looking to bounce back from their tough start to the season?
One thing is certain – this Coupe de France has suddenly become worth watching. With PSG out of the picture, anything can happen, and that's exactly how it should be in football.
In a league match earlier in the week, PSG comfortably beat Paris FC 2-1, and many pundits expected them to steamroll their way through the competition once again. But as is often the case with football, things don't quite go according to plan, and Paris FC's derby day win has given hope to fans that this season's Coupe de France might just be worth watching.
The problem for PSG is that they've become too reliant on winning big in European competitions and domestic leagues. They seem to have taken their foot off the gas when it comes to the Cup de France, and it shows in their lack of excitement and passion. Their manager Luis Enrique has even been forced to wish Paris FC "all the best for the rest of the competition", a testament to just how far behind they are.
Meanwhile, Paris FC's win over PSG has given them a much-needed confidence boost. They've been struggling in Ligue 1, but their victory has shown that they're capable of beating some of the top teams in France. It's a welcome change from the usual dominance that PSG exhibit, and it raises questions about just how much better they truly are.
The Coupe de France has become a serious business for clubs up and down the pyramid due to financial constraints. With TV deals being drastically reduced, every little victory counts. Paris FC may not be able to make up for their shortfall in Ligue 1, but their deep run in the Cup could bring in some much-needed revenue.
PSG's surprise elimination has also sent shockwaves through the football world. Their first defeat at this stage since 2014 came after a tiring week that included a trip to Kuwait. It raises questions about just how vulnerable they truly are, and whether anyone can stop them from winning Ligue 1 again.
For those who love French football, the return of sporting intrigue in the Coupe de France is welcome compensation for its lack of romance this season. The knockout tournament format brings out the best in teams, and with PSG eliminated, the competition is suddenly looking more exciting than ever.
As we move forward into the next round of the Cup, there are a few storylines that are worth keeping an eye on. Will Strasbourg continue to impress as they bid for their first major trophy? Can Lyon's new signing Endrick make a big impact and help his team win some silverware? And what about Marseille, who are looking to bounce back from their tough start to the season?
One thing is certain – this Coupe de France has suddenly become worth watching. With PSG out of the picture, anything can happen, and that's exactly how it should be in football.