The Japan Times - PSG fightback denies Strasbourg in six-goal Ligue 1 thriller

Bradley Barcola gave reigning French and European champions PSG an early advantage at the Parc des Princes, but Strasbourg came roaring back to lead 3-1 thanks to a Joaquin Panichelli double and a Diego Moreira goal.

However, Goncalo Ramos converted a penalty to set up a grandstand finish, and Senny Mayulu equalised for PSG, who avoided what would have been a second defeat already in eight domestic outings this season.

They stay top of the table, a point clear of Strasbourg after denying the Alsace team what would have been a first ever win for them in 35 attempts away to the capital side in the top flight.

The result nevertheless means that Marseille and Lyon can now each climb above PSG and Strasbourg with wins on Saturday -- OM are at home to Le Havre while Lyon travel to Nice.

PSG were still without Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury picked up playing for France at the beginning of last month.

Captain Marquinhos was also sidelined along with midfield duo Fabian Ruiz and Joao Neves, although a largely second-string Paris side did welcome back Desire Doue after a month and a half out injured.

Doue set up Barcola's opener and also won the penalty which allowed Ramos to score the hosts' second goal on the night.

The Champions League title-holders now turn their attentions back to their European campaign and a trip to Germany to play Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday -- they have already beaten Atalanta and Barcelona in the competition this season.

Liam Rosenior's Strasbourg meanwhile face Jagiellonia Bialystok of Poland in the UEFA Conference League next week.

Other Ligue 1 action this weekend includes Monaco travelling to Angers on Saturday, when new Belgian coach Sebastien Pocognoli will take charge of the principality side for the first time.

M.Fujitav--JT