PSG, Monaco turn focus back to Ligue 1

PARIS - Following a week of contrasting disappointment for Ligue 1 leaders Paris Saint-Germain and second-placed Monaco, domestic action provides a welcome distraction as they resume their battle for the 2014 French title.

Friday, January 24, 2014

PARIS - Following a week of contrasting disappointment for Ligue 1 leaders Paris Saint-Germain and second-placed Monaco, domestic action provides a welcome distraction as they resume their battle for the 2014 French title.Laurent Blanc suffered his third defeat in eleven matches at the helm of PSG as they were shocked at home in the French Cup by a Montpellier side languishing fifth from bottom in Ligue 1.While their hopes of winning an unprecedented haul of four trophies went up in smoke, Blanc remained philosophical heading into Saturday’s trip to Guingamp."It was a typical Cup match and sadly it was us that went out which is disappointing,” said the former France and Bordeaux coach.Monaco come into their Sunday evening tie at home to Marseille five points behind the capital club, but despite qualifying for the last 16 of the French Cup on Wednesday, they were counting the cost of a potentially season-ending knee ligament injury to star striker Radamel Falcao.Lyon are now the only French club maintaining a bid for four trophies after they sailed through their French Cup tie at amateur side Yzeure.Yoann Gourcuff’s spectacular return to form has been the foundation for Remi Garde’s men and they are also into the knockout phase of the Europa League as well as the League Cup semifinals.