PARIS, France - Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) continued their remarkable run this season with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Olympique Lyonnais, reinforcing their position at the top of Ligue 1.
The match, held on February 23, 2025, at the Groupama Stadium, saw PSG extend their lead to 13 points, leaving Lyon struggling to keep pace. With Achraf Hakimi scoring twice and Ousmane Dembélé adding another goal, PSG showcased their attacking prowess, which has been consistent throughout the season, keeping them unbeaten.
After a lackluster first half, the champions kicked off the second half with renewed energy. Just eight minutes after the interval, Hakimi found the net, slotting home from inside the box after receiving a precise cross from Bradley Barcola. This early goal ignited the momentum PSG needed.
Riding this wave of confidence, PSG quickly doubled their lead when Dembélé curled a spectacular shot past Lyon's goalkeeper Lucas Perri, marking his 17th goal of the league campaign. The atmosphere at the Groupama Stadium shifted, with the home fans growing anxious as Lyon’s chances of competing dimmed.
Lyon, sensing the urgency, pulled one back through Rayan Cherki in the 83rd minute; his close-range goal rallied the home crowd, giving them hope for a late comeback. Yet, just as Lyon's spirits lifted, Hakimi struck again, effectively ending their dreams, securing his brace just two minutes later to reestablish PSG’s two-goal cushion.
Despite continued efforts from Lyon to claw their way back, including another goal from Corentin Tolisso during stoppage time, it wasn't enough to derail PSG’s victory. Gianluigi Donnarumma, PSG's goalkeeper, was kept busy through the match, making several key saves to deny Lyon any chance of leveling the contest.
“I think today we showed everyone we are capable of playing any match against any team,” said PSG coach Luis Enrique, who has led the team through a successful run this season. “We feel very strong tonight; we're in a very good phase.” His confidence resonates with the fans as PSG stretch their winning streak to eight games across all competitions.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, instrumental to PSG's gameplay, also commented on the challenge posed by Lyon, stating, “Congratulations to the team, it was a tough game. The important thing is to get three points and to keep on winning this league.” His performance has continued to solidify his role as one of the key players for the Parisian side this season.
The defeat leaves Lyon sitting sixth, currently occupying the final Europa Conference League qualifying spot with 36 points. Their inability to maintain sustained pressure against PSG, who now seem on track for their 13th Ligue 1 title, highlights the gaps they need to address moving forward.
PSG's dominant display not only underscored their current league form but also set the tone for the remainder of the season. With Marseille faltering with their 3-0 defeat to Auxerre, PSG's advantage has solidified their position as the team to beat.
On the other hand, Lyon's management and players are left to reassess their strategies, especially after this latest setback. Under the guidance of new coach Paulo Fonseca, they aimed for improvement after previous disappointing results. Sunday's match served as both a test and lesson, particularly against such formidable opposition.
Overall, PSG’s victory signifies not just the points gained but also their psychological edge over competitors as they move toward the end of the season. The blend of young talent like Dembélé and experienced players like Hakimi might just be the winning formula they need for both league and potential European success.
With the title race entering its final stages, all eyes will remain on PSG to see if they can maintain their current pace and secure yet another championship, whilst Lyon will undoubtedly be reflecting on how to regain their footing and perhaps target European competition next season.