Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) showcased their dominance over Olympique Lyonnais with a decisive 3-1 victory at Groupama Stadium on February 23, 2025. This win maintains PSG's impressive unbeaten streak, now extended to 22 league matches, solidifying their position as the frontrunners for the Ligue 1 title.
The match began with both teams showing their attacking intent, but it was PSG's Ousmane Dembélé who seized the initiative early on. The French winger was instrumental throughout the game, and his contributions were felt both on and off the ball. His electric pace and flair created several opportunities for PSG, as he looked to continue his remarkable scoring run.
Despite Lyon's resilience, PSG was the more threatening side. The first half ended without goals, but not without excitement, as Dembélé narrowly missed scoring after dribbling past Lyon's goalkeeper, Lucas Perri. The Lyon defense, led by Mata, managed to clear the danger just before the break.
Things changed dramatically early in the second half. Just eight minutes after the restart, Hakimi struck first for PSG, converting from close range after receiving a well-placed cross from Bradley Barcola. "Achraf Hakimi doesn't waste the ball, and just like this, sends it to the net," praised beIN SPORTS USA, emphasizing the Moroccan's clinical finishing ability.
PSG extended their lead soon after, with Dembélé netting his 20th league goal of the season. The winger’s finish was vintage Dembélé—a precise shot to the top corner following excellent interplay with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. His remarkable form has seen him amass 24 goals this season across all competitions, reaffirming his status as one of the league’s standout talents.
Lyon, facing the threat of defeat, struggled to find their rhythm, but Rayan Cherki managed to capitalize on PSG's brief lapse of concentration. He pulled one back for Lyon, bringing the score to 2-1 with just under ten minutes to go, igniting hopes of a comeback.
But PSG quickly snuffed out any ambitions Lyon had of staging a revival. Within two minutes of Cherki's goal, Hakimi scored his second of the night, sending the visitors' hopes crashing down once again. A swift counterattack put Lyon's defense on the back foot, and Hakimi made no mistake, firing past Perri to restore the two-goal cushion.
With the clock winding down, Lyon attempted to apply pressure and push for another goal, but PSG's Gianluigi Donnarumma made two remarkable saves, first denying Mikautadze then thwarting Maitland-Niles within quick succession. Lyon's attempts to cut the lead were met with resistance, and as Tolisso's late header went wide, PSG closed out the match comfortably.
The match highlighted not only PSG's attacking prowess but also their resilience under pressure—factors Luis Enrique has been instilling since taking the reins full-time. The visitors will be pleased with the outcome, which sets them up nicely for their upcoming Coupe de France quarter-final against Stade Briochin on February 26.
With their current form and key players delivering, PSG looks poised to continue their title challenge and make another run at domestic glory. The victory over Lyon cements their status as the team to beat, showcasing depth, talent, and determination, characteristics synonymous with PSG's ambitions under the current regime.