Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) showcased their prowess with a dominant 3-1 victory over Olympique Lyonnais at the Parc des Princes on December 15, 2023, marking their return to winning form after two consecutive draws.
Coming off a convincing midweek victory against RB Salzburg (3-0) in the Champions League, PSG knew the stakes were high as they faced fifth-placed Lyon, who had won four matches in succession. With coach Luis Enrique making four changes from the Salzburg game, the line-up featured fresh players, including Ousmane Dembélé and Desiree Doue, replacing Gonçalo Ramos and others.
The match began with PSG seizing control almost immediately. Just eight minutes in, after some clever footwork, Doue navigated around defender Ainsley Maitland-Niles, cut inside the box, and delivered the perfect ball for Dembélé, who struck it deftly to the bottom right corner to open the scoring. It was a promising start for the home side.
PSG's lead grew only moments later. At the 14 minute mark, Doue was fouled inside the box by Lyon's defender, allowing Vitinha to step up and convert the penalty, sinking it decisively to the right corner of the net. The enthusiastic home crowd erupted, bringing the score to 2-0.
Despite the early setbacks, Lyon attempted to rally. They managed to reduce the deficit just before halftime when the young attacking duo of Rayan Cherki and Georges Mikautadze executed some impressive passing around the PSG defense. Mikautadze deftly chipped the ball over Gianluigi Donnarumma, bringing Lyon back within one goal and restoring some hope for their supporters (2-1, 40 minutes).
But PSG was not to be deterred. The second half kicked off with the Parisians continuing to dominate possession and pressing Lyon high up the pitch. Dembélé, who was proving to be the primary threat, almost added to his tally but was thwarted by Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Péri.
PSG's persistence nearly paid off again shortly after when Nuno Mendes scored what appeared to be their third goal, but it was ruled offside. This only momentarily halted PSG's momentum as they continued to press and create opportunities.
The Parisian side had their breakthrough at the 88-minute mark. After Lucas Péri saved Bradley Barcola’s attempt, the ball fell to Gonçalo Ramos, who calmly slotted it home to seal the match at 3-1.
This victory was significant for PSG not just for the points earned, but also for restoring confidence after dipping form and was their first league win after three matches.
PSG’s performance propelled them 7 points clear at the top of Ligue 1, showcasing their potential as title contenders yet again, as they prepare to face rivals AS Monaco next on December 20, 2023. This upcoming encounter promises to be highly charged as both teams understand the rivalry and stakes involved.
