3 standout players from PSG's narrow win at Auxerre

PSG secured a narrow 1-0 away win over relegation-threatened AJ Auxerre at the Abbé-Deschamps Stadium. Bradley Barcola's goal in the last 10 minutes of the game was the difference, helping Paris claim back the top spot of the league ahead of RC Lens' heavyweight clash against Marseille.

The European Champions bounced back from their frustrating 2-1 defeat to Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League, casting doubts on a top 8 finish before their clash against Premier League side Newcastle next Wednesday.

3 standout players from PSG's narrow win at Auxerre

1. Bradley Barcola

As usual, the Frenchman was a constant menace for Auxerre throughout the 90 minutes, and as usual, he wasted a lot of opportunities with Donovan Leon making several key saves.

However, PSG's top goal scorer in Ligue 1 was the one able to lift his side to victory with an important goal who prevented the European Champions from another frustrating result. The team has struggled recently to score and has been punished against Sporting Lisbon. Without his goal and his team securing the win, and his performance reads very differently. Additionally, the many injuries hitting the squad at the moment will make him a crucial player of his team against Newcastle.

2. Illia Zabarnyi

The Ukraine international had an awful game as he came on against Sporting Lisbon in PSG's midweek Champions League game. However, he delivered a very solid performance against Auxerre as Paris bounced back. Many will say that his performance came against an easy opponent but Paris had many issues dealing with Auxerre's fastbreaks and he was able to remain in control in most of his contests against Auxerre's Namaso and Sinayoko.

He has been mostly used as a replacement for Marquinhos when the Brazil international and PSG captain was injured or rested by Luis Enrique and might need more time to get used to his role while improving his performances.

3. Ousmane Dembélé

The 2025 Ballon d'Or was the difference maker as PSG defeated Auxerre. His entrance at the 62nd minutes of the game helped Paris be more dominant as they created more clear cut chances. He delivered a superb assist to Bradley Barcola.

He was the one creating all the chances for his side, bringing creativity to a team without it. Since the beginning of the year, his injuries seems to be behind him and his performances are proving it. Luis Enrique and his team will need an outstanding Dembélé to beat Newcastle Wednesday.