Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) delivered a stunning performance against AS Monaco, securing a resounding 4-1 victory at Parc des Princes on Matchday 21 of Ligue 1. The match saw standout displays from Ousmane Dembélé, who notched two goals, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who scored his first for the club. This victory not only solidified PSG's position at the top of the table with 53 points but also showcased their attacking prowess and depth as they moved 13 points clear of second-placed Marseille.
Prior to kick-off, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement as PSG announced the contract extensions of coach Luis Enrique, along with players Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes, and Vitinha. This news added extra motivation for the team as they took to the pitch.
PSG wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Vitinha opening the scoring just six minutes in. The Portuguese midfielder curled a low free-kick past Monaco’s goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki, catching him off guard. Yet, Monaco quickly responded. Just ten minutes later, Denis Zakaria leveled the score, displaying clinical precision by finding the net from a tight angle after deft play from Soungoutou Magassa.
The first half rolled on with both teams trading chances, but neither could find the net again, leaving things tied at halftime. Luis Enrique seemed frustrated with his side’s inability to convert their dominance—it was clear they controlled possession and created more opportunities.
But the story changed dramatically early in the second half. Kvaratskhelia, who had been showing signs of chemistry with his teammates throughout the match, restored PSG’s lead just nine minutes after the break. He skillfully cut inside past defenders before unleashing a powerful shot, marking his first goal since joining the club from Napoli for €70 million.
This strike invigorated the home side, and just three minutes later, Dembélé extended their advantage. The winger, who has been nothing short of sensational this season, executed a quick one-two with Désiré Doué before slotting the ball home, showing remarkable poise and skill. Dembélé wasn’t done yet; he rounded off PSG’s scoring with another goal deep in stoppage time, marking his 16th league goal of the season. The Frenchman has now scored 13 goals across all competitions since January began, matching his total tally from his previous 42 appearances.
The match statistics painted a clear picture of PSG's dominance. They led with 16 shots compared to Monaco's 9, with 7 on target. The expected goals also favored PSG significantly, illustrating their attacking aptitude and efficiency.
For Monaco, this loss was sobering. Adi Hütter, the manager of Monaco, expressed his disappointment, acknowledging missed opportunities and the team’s inability to capitalize on their early chances. “For me, we lost the game in the first half by missing too many opportunities in front of goal,” he reflected. Hütter's frustration contrasted with the confidence radiated from the PSG camp, where Luis Enrique and his players basked in the evening’s success.
PSG's victory showcased their newfound synergy and depth—not only did they secure the win, but they demonstrated their capability to control the game, particularly during pivotal moments. This matches their offensive strategy seamlessly with the diamond formation under Enrique, which has seen multiple players shine.
Looking forward, PSG's next challenge will be against Brest as they prepare for the first leg of their UEFA Champions League knockout-stage play-off tie on Tuesday. They'll aim to maintain the momentum built from this match against Monaco. Meanwhile, Monaco must regroup quickly, as they have their own Champions League commitments on the horizon, with Benfica coming to visit next week.
This match was more than just three points; it was a statement of intent from PSG and highlighted the potential of their squad as they continue their league campaign and prepare for European competition. If the performances of Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia are anything to go by, it could be shaping up to be another remarkable season for the Parisians.