Kiedrzynek - Elimbi Gilbert, Dudek, De Almeida, Isabela - Karchaoui (c), Ebayilin (Samoura, 86'), Echegini - Feller, Leuchter (Groenen, 64', Yaya, 75'), Kanjinga (Charlier, 86').
The Parisians officially kicked off their season with a crucial two-legged tie against Frankfurt in the UEFA Women’s Champions League play-offs. In a tight start to the match, it was the Germans that struck first, capitalising on a turnover to open the scoring (1–0, 4'). But Les Rouge et Bleu dug deep and fought back immediately. Following a brilliant run down the wing by Merveille Kanjinga, Naomie Feller scored her first competitive goal for her new club to level the score (1–1, 7'.
After a frantic start, the game settled into a more even contest, with both sides keen to close down space. Breaking deep into the box, Kanjinga once again tore through the Frankfurt defence, but her shot was saved by Lina Altenburg (23'). A few minutes later, following a massive mix-up, Paris again came close to taking the lead once more, but the Eintracht 'keeper came to the rescue again (33'). Having been caught off guard early on, Paulo César’s players had reacted well and could harbour real hopes going into the second half.
The match resumed at the same pace, with a huge chance for the Germans via Hanna Bennison, whose powerful shot struck both posts of Kiedrzynek’s goal (49'). Frankfurt created another good chance for new signing Larissa Muhlaus, but her half-volley sailed over the bar (60'). Away from home, the Parisians were now sitting deeper, waiting for the right opportunity to launch a counter-attack, and leaving possession to their opponents.
Naomie Feller, looking sharp on her competitive debut, tried her luck to no avail (73'). Called into action once again, Kiedrzynek remained imperious in goal to keep the score level (78', 86'). Les Rouge et Bleu held firm against Eintracht's attacks in the closing minutes. They even came within a few centimetres of snatching victory, but Feller’s shot struck the base of the post (90'). Qualification will be decided in the capital next Tuesday at 18:30 CET.
Sakina Karchaoui and Les Parisiennes celebrate Naomie Feller's first goal in Rouge et Bleu.
