Paris Saint-Germain take on FC Metz this Wednesday and will be without Lionel Messi for the trip to Stade Saint Symphorien after the French giants confirmed that the Argentina international has a knee problem which will keep him out for the game. Messi was substituted during last Sunday's 2-1 home win over Olympique Lyonnais and was off the pitch when Mauro Icardi scored a late headed winner to maintain PSG's 100% winning start to the season.
Here is how you can watch the match and what to know:
Viewing information
- Date: Wednesday, Sept. 22 | Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Stade Saint Symphorien -- Metz, France
- TV: beIN Sports USA
- Live stream: fuboTV (try for free)
- Odds: FCM +900; Draw +450; PSG -333 (via Caesars Sportsbook)
Storylines as Lionel Messi misses out
Metz:
Winless this season along with Stade Brestois 29 and AS Saint-Etienne, Metz are currently bottom of the pile with the joint-worst defensive record in the league of 13 goals conceded. Frederic Antonetti could soon be facing the sack if results do not pick up, but six goals scored averages out at one per game so far which will give them hope if they can tighten up defensively.
PSG:
Six wins from six and although it was not totally convincing against Lyon, Pochettino's changes and his players just about got the job done. On paper, Metz should be more straightforward, even with Messi missing, so expect rotation from the Argentine with several squad members in need of minutes before the UEFA Champions League returns.
Prediction
Les Parisiens to ease past Les Grenats after some initial resistance. Metz will probably keep their scoring run going, but PSG will have too much for them with Kylian Mbappe and Neymar in need of some fine-tuning here and against Montpellier HSC this Saturday. Pick: FCM 1-3 PSG.