AJ Auxerre vs Paris FC: Survival Stakes High at the Abbé-Deschamps
AUXERRE, 08 February 2026 – AJ Auxerre host Paris FC this afternoon in a pivotal Ligue 1 encounter that could define the survival hopes for the Burgundian outfit. As the 21st round of the campaign unfolds, the hosts find themselves in the relegation zone, desperate to snap a winless streak that has seen them collect just one point from their last five outings.
Relegation Battle Intensifies
Currently sitting 17th in the table, AJ Auxerre enter this fixture under significant pressure. Christophe Pélissier’s side has struggled for offensive consistency, averaging just 0.7 goals per game over their recent stretch. The “AJA” faithful will be looking toward the likes of Lassine Sinayoko and Kévin Danois to spark a revival. Auxerre’s defensive record has also been a concern, having conceded the opening goal 14 times this season—the joint-highest in the division.
Paris FC, positioned 14th, arrive at the Stade de l’Abbé-Deschamps with a slight cushion over the bottom three but remain far from safe. The Parisian side has shown resilience on the road, securing three away victories this season. They enter this match following a morale-boosting 2-2 draw against Marseille last weekend, proving they can compete with the league’s heavyweights.
The Matondo Factor
A major talking point ahead of kick-off is the return of Rudy Matondo. The midfielder completed a permanent transfer from AJ Auxerre to Paris FC on 2 February 2026, the final day of the winter transfer window. Having spent the first half of the season in Burgundy, Matondo could make a swift debut against his former teammates, adding a layer of intrigue to the midfield battle.
Head-to-Head and Key Statistics
| Stat Category | Data / Record |
|---|---|
| All-Time H2H Record | 5 Auxerre Wins, 5 Paris FC Wins, 5 Draws |
| Last Meeting (Nov 2025) | Paris FC 1-1 AJ Auxerre |
| Auxerre League Position | 17th |
| Paris FC League Position | 14th |
| Auxerre Goal Difference | -15 |
| Paris FC Goal Difference | -8 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What time is kick-off?
The match is scheduled to start at 17:15 local time (CET) at the Stade de l’Abbé-Deschamps in Auxerre.
Who are the players to watch for AJ Auxerre?
Clément Akpa, Kévin Danois, and Lassine Sinayoko are considered the core trio tasked with leading Auxerre’s survival push. Defensively, Sinaly Diomande remains a key figure in the backline.
How did the previous encounter this season end?
The two sides met earlier this season on 29 November 2025, resulting in a 1-1 draw at the Stade Jean Bouin.
Is Rudy Matondo eligible to play?
Yes, following his transfer on 2 February 2026, Matondo is eligible to feature for Paris FC against his former club this Sunday.