PSG and Monaco Clash in French Champions Trophy in Doha
Paris Saint-Germain is gearing up to potentially secure their first trophy of the season as they prepare to face Monaco in the French Champions Trophy in Doha on Sunday. The choice of location for the match in Qatar not only signifies the Gulf nation’s increasing influence in French football but also underlines the global reach of the sport.
The French Champions Trophy traditionally marks the opening of the French football season. In contrast to Spain and Italy, which have expanded their Super Cups into four-team tournaments held in Saudi Arabia, France has opted to host the Champions Trophy abroad in recent years, with previous editions taking place in locations such as Montreal, Canada.
Originally scheduled to be held in Beijing on August 8 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and China, this season’s match faced a cancellation by Chinese authorities. This is not the first time the event has faced such a situation, as a similar scenario occurred the previous year when the game was set to take place in Thailand.
Following last season’s event in Paris where PSG emerged victorious over Toulouse, Qatar stepped in to host this year’s edition of the Champions Trophy.
While Ivory Coast was also considered as a potential location, Qatar emerged as the preferred choice, offering a compelling proposal that swayed the French league (LFP) to opt for the Gulf state. This decision comes at a time when the LFP is facing financial challenges following a significant reduction in domestic television rights deals last year.
According to the French league, “The Doha option was the most favourable solution for the date, benefiting both the LFP and the two teams involved.” The match, supported by the Qatar Tourism Authority, is set to take place at Stadium 974 in Doha, a venue that will also be used during the upcoming 2022 World Cup.
