Following some interesting results so far in Group C of the Champions League, extra impetus was placed on Napoli’s visit to Parc des Princes as they geared up to face PSG.
On paper, this fixture was one to salivate over, boasting all the ingredients of a tasty clash: a tough, well drilled Napoli side under the watchful eye of master tactician, Carlo Ancelotti, up against the flair and free flowing attack of PSG, this season being remoulded by Thomas Tuchel.
The atmosphere inside the stadium was as raucous as you would expect, the visiting Italians fans full of confidence in their team and showing no fear of their expensively assembled opponents. The stadium has been described as “caisse de résonnance” (box of sound) due to its tight dimensions, and the lights of the Champions League only added further atmosphere to this electric night out.
Twice Napoli silenced the Parc des Princes before Angel Di Maria’s moment of magic rescued a point for the home side sending the PSG fans into raptures that reverberated throughout the capital.
The result leaves Group C wide open, with PSG heading to Italian soil next as they look for a measure of revenge against Napoli. PSG were once again sporting their Jordan branded Champions League third kit, but it hasn’t proved overly lucky yet with only one win in the group stages. Napoli on the other hand are proving that they are certainly not to be underestimated.
Photography by Alex Penfornis for SoccerBible.