Paris Saint-Germain, guided by Luis Enrique, expanded their Ligue 1 lead to four points with a commanding victory over Monaco at the Parc des Princes. Kylian Mbappe converted a penalty, and Ousmane Dembele, Goncalo Ramos, Vitinha, and Randal Kolo Muani added goals.
Monaco’s goals came from Takumi Minamino and Folarin Balogun as they maintained their third-place position. PSG’s dominant 5-2 win highlighted their prowess, setting a formidable precedent for their upcoming UEFA Champions League clash with Newcastle United. The lethal combination of Mbappe’s penalty and Ramos’ early goal effectively sealed the match, with Dembele and Vitinha adding a quick double.
Despite Monaco’s commendable efforts and two goals, they couldn’t withstand PSG’s relentless second-half attack. Minamino excelled for Monaco, scoring a deserved equalizer in the first half, while Balogun, back in the starting lineup, secured a consolation goal after Vitinha struck for PSG’s fourth.
In the dying minutes, Randal Kolo Muani secured PSG’s fifth goal. Despite the enthralling duel between two of Ligue 1’s top three teams, the initial three goals were tainted by individual errors, casting a shadow over an otherwise high-caliber performance.
Kylian Mbappe penalty against Kohn
The first blunder occurred when Philipp Kohn let a harmless shot from Dembele slip, resulting in Ramos’ goal. Gianluigi Donnarumma replicated the mistake by lingering too long in possession before Minamino capitalized and found the net. Nevertheless, PSG closed out the first half on a strong note as Soungoutou Mangassa’s weary challenge on Dembele led to Mbappe converting an unstoppable penalty against Kohn.
Monaco launched into the second half with determination, and Balogun, Minamino, and Aleksandr Golovin all had opportunities to level the score. However, their failure to capitalize allowed PSG to exploit the visitors’ lapses, with Dembele, Vitinha, and substitute Randal Kolo Muani compounding Monaco’s troubles in the later stages of the game.
Discussion Highlight: PSG’s Warning to Newcastle
PSG faced a humbling defeat in a prior Champions League group stage match at St James’ Park. Nevertheless, they are now gearing up for a revengeful showdown against Newcastle at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday.
While PSG wasn’t the dominant force for much of the game, they made a significant impact when it truly mattered. The result may appear tough on Monaco, whose early pressing tactics posed challenges for the hosts. Takumi Minamino, with his delightful play, skillfully executed a goal and had two additional shots that he might deem unfortunate not to convert.
Minamino, effortlessly gliding into unnoticed spaces, was poised for a hat-trick, hindered only by Donnarumma’s exceptional performance, notwithstanding the initial goal error. Donnarumma, using his long limbs, appeared to be the sole contender capable of outdoing himself and frustrating Monaco’s attempts.
As Monaco’s energy waned, PSG seized the opportunity. The three unexpected second-half goals, despite Philipp Kohn’s decent performance, underscored PSG’s ability to consistently score when creating clear openings and taking shots.
Looking ahead to Tuesday, Nick Pope must have a serious discussion with his defenders. Without proper defensive coordination, Newcastle could encounter a similar fate, irrespective of their ball-handling prowess.
Man of the Match: Ousmane Dembele
His solo performance was truly exceptional, displaying impeccable timing in his run that left the Monaco defenders trailing behind. A flawless touch and a powerful finish, expertly executed, gave Kohn no chance and effectively secured the victory for PSG.
The significance of Dembele easily claiming the goal of the game, despite Vitinha’s commendable finish, cannot be overstated. Prior to that defining moment, Dembele showcased relentless energy, acting as a dynamic threat alongside Mbappe and causing chaos in Monaco’s back three.
Dembele’s unwavering determination and hunger were instrumental in earning the penalty for Mbappe, reinstating a lead that PSG would hold onto. Furthermore, his shot also played a pivotal role in Ramos’ goal.
Player Assessments
PSG: Donnarumma 7, Hakimi 7, Skriniar 6, Hernandez 7, Mukiele 6, Ugarte 8, Vitinha 7, Fabian 6, Dembele 8, Ramos 7, Mbappe 7, Subs: Kolo Muani 7, Soler 7, Barcola 6
Monaco: Kohn 7, Singo 5, Maripan 6, Magassa 6, Vanderson 6, Zakaria 7, Camara 6, Jakobs 6, Golovin 7, Minamino 8, Balogun 6, Subs: Ben Yedder 6, Akliouche 7, Diatta 5
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