Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured their spot in the last 32 of the Coupe de France with a nail-biting victory over RC Lens, triumphing three to four on penalties after the match ended 1-1 during regulation time. The match, held at Stade Bollaert-Delelis on December 22, 2023, saw PSG's goalkeeper Matvey Safonov take center stage, saving two penalty shots to seal the win.
Initially, the game was one of ebb and flow, with both teams having their moments. Achraf Hakimi appeared to put PSG on the scoreboard early on, only for the goal to be disallowed due to offside. The first half concluded without any goals, but the game shifted after the break.
RC Lens finally broke the deadlock when M'Bala Nzola's strike deflected off PSG's Abdukodir Khusanov, beating Safonov, who had no chance to react. Just minutes later, PSG responded with Gonçalo Ramos, who equalized with a well-placed shot following a defensive error from Lens' Kevin Danso. This goal rejuvenated PSG, but the match ended without any decisive victory, leading the teams to the penalty shootout.
During the shootout, both teams exchanged successful attempts at first. But it was Safonov's heroics which changed the tide. He dove to his right to deny Nzola's penalty, keeping PSG's hopes alive. Bradley Barcola then took his shot for PSG, successfully slotting it home, before Safonov delivered again by stopping Andy Diouf’s attempt. This sequence of events opened the door for PSG’s victory.
Safonov, who stepped up to replace the injured Gianluigi Donnarumma, reflected on his performance humbly. "I am happy because we won the match. I do not believe I am the man of the match. Stopping penalties is something normal for a goalkeeper," he stated post-match, as reported by beIN Sports.
PSG coach Luis Enrique praised the team's efforts, stating, "I think it was a very hard-fought match. Matvey Safonov was very good. He was very effective. The four penalty-takers were also very determined." His remarks highlight the team’s collective effort and psychological resilience under pressure.
Lens’ Adrien Thomasson added his appreciation for Safonov’s performance, asserting, "There was a good goalkeeper on the other side, and he deserves credit." This sentiment echoes the growing recognition of Safonov's talent, particularly after such high-stakes encounters.
The match showcased PSG's depth and resilience, as they navigated through challenging moments and came out victorious. Despite dominating Ligue 1, where they hold a ten-point lead, this win reminded fans and critics alike of PSG's ability to endure pressure and capitalize on moments of brilliance.
Safonov's performance is particularly significant as he treads the waters as Donnarumma's understudy. His ability to step up during this Coupe de France match raises questions about the goalkeeping hierarchy at PSG and whether he might secure more playing time moving forward. With his impressive saves and steadfast demeanor, he proved he is ready for the challenge.
This win propels PSG onward, as they prepare for their next matchup against Espaly. The Coupe de France remains not just another competition for the club, but also a significant opportunity to extend their storied legacy. With the talent they possess, combined with the champion mentality showcased under pressure, PSG looks poised for another promising run toward the coveted trophy.
Matvey Safonov’s display of skill and composure under adversity signifies not just personal growth but also the potential for PSG as they eye another Coupe de France title. The stakes are high, but with Safonov ready to defend their goal, fans have reason to believe this year's campaign can lead to yet more silverware for the Parisian powerhouse.
