PARIS French champions Nantes will begin their title defense with a tough away game against UEFA Cup qualifiers Bordeaux on July 28, the French league announced on Monday.

Olympique Marseille also face a tricky start to the 2001-2002 season on the ground of local rivals Montpellier, Reuters reported.

Lyon, last season's runners-up, will travel to Lens and Paris St. Germain will host Lille, who secured third place in the league standings to qualify for the Champions League.