PARIS, France - Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) kicked off their defense of the French Cup with a tense penalty shootout victory over Lens, concluding the year on a high note after battling through regulation to end 1-1.
On Sunday at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis, PSG's hero was none other than goalkeeper Matvey Safonov, who made two pivotal saves during the shootout, propelling his team forward with the final score reading 4-3 on penalties.
The match began under stark anticipation, following PSG's recent 2-4 triumph over AS Monaco just days prior. Manager Luis Enrique's squad was aware they faced stiff competition against Lens, especially with key players missing. Safonov was starting due to Gianluigi Donnarumma's recovery from facial injuries. The red-and-blue side fielded captain Marquinhos alongside Willian Pacho at the back, fortified by Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes at fullback positions. Midfield pivot settled with Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz, and João Neves, with creative threats lining the wings and Ousmane Dembélé spearheading the attack.
From the onset, PSG displayed their intent to control the match. They dominated possession but struggled to break down Lens’ well-organized defense. The first real opportunity for the Parisians came when Désiré Doué’s cross found Hakimi, but the goal was disallowed for offside (25'). With no video assistance available at this stage, frustration loomed as they sought more chances.
Lens, holding their ground, began to grow bolder and registered their first significant threat as Przemyslaw Frankowski forced Safonov to make the save (26'). The visitors continued to press, with Marquinhos hitting the crossbar just before the half (39'). Although neither team found the touch, the intensity ramped up as the second half commenced.
Shortly after the restart, well-crafted counter-attacks emerged from both teams but it was Lens who broke the deadlock on 66 minutes. Abdukodir Khusanov found the net with a deft finish following chaos inside the PSG box during a corner kick (1-0). The cheers from the Lens fans were palpable as they took the lead.
Yet, just four minutes later, PSG leveled the score thanks to Gonçalo Ramos, who made his mark after coming on as a sub. His quick strike from close range after misjudgment from Lens’ Kevin Danso was instrumental in bringing the two sides back to parity (1-1).
The closing moments of the match had PSG pushing for victory as Dembélé came close with multiple attempts, but the teams remained deadlocked at the final whistle, forcing the match to penalties.
During the shootout, nerves were high. PSG's Vitinha, Ramos, Dembélé, and Bradley Barcola each confidently converted their penalties, but it was Safonov who truly shone. He first denied Nzola's effort before later saving Diouf’s attempt, ensuring PSG's place on the next round.
PSG is now set to face National 3's underdogs Espaly, which is undoubtedly seen as a favorable matchup on paper but may present its own challenges. This matchup serves as yet another opportunity for the Ligue 1 giants to showcase their dominance. Before the cup action resumes, they will have their winter break before returning to competitive action against AS Monaco on January 5.
With this thrilling victory, PSG has not just advanced to the next stage but reaffirmed their position as the defending champions, winning their 15th French Cup last season. The team will undoubtedly look to build on this momentum as they enter the new year, aiming for success on all fronts.
