Troyes Holds Paris FC to a Draw in Behind‑Closed‑Doors Friendly
- Sep 5
- 2 min read
During the international break, Paris FC used the pause in Ligue 1 action to fine‑tune their squad in a low‑key friendly against Ligue 2 side Troyes. The match, staged at the club’s Orly training ground without spectators, ended in a 1‑1 stalemate.
Just days after their first league win of the season — a 3‑2 victory over Metz at Jean‑Bouin, coach Stéphane Gilli opted for a different tactical approach, lining up in a 4‑4‑2 rather than his usual 4‑3‑3. The fixture offered valuable minutes to players who had seen little action in the opening three rounds; only Adama Camara and Thibault De Smet had started the previous match.
Gilli described the contest as “a good match with useful lessons,” noting both positives and areas for improvement, particularly a lack of attacking edge.
The game also marked the debut of two summer signings: right‑back Hamari Traoré, returning to the club where he began his French career in 2012, and attacking midfielder Jonathan Ikoné, once a youth teammate of Kylian Mbappé at AS Bondy. Traoré played the first half, operating high up the pitch but seeing limited possession as Troyes threatened on several occasions. Ikoné entered for the final 20 minutes, showing flashes of technical quality and precise passing.
Gilli praised both newcomers, highlighting Traoré’s energy and quick adaptation, while acknowledging Ikoné will need time to regain match sharpness after limited involvement at Fiorentina. He expressed confidence that both will soon reach their best level.
Looking ahead, Traoré could be in contention for the trip to Brest on 14 September, while Ikoné is expected to sit that one out. The squad now enjoys a three‑day break before resuming training on Tuesday.
Match details: Paris FC (L1) 1–1 Troyes (L2) Goals: Krasso (51’) for Paris FC; Bentayeb (7’) for Troyes. Referee: M. Paradis.
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