Paris Saint-Germain's dream of completing a historic unbeaten season in Ligue 1 came crashing down on April 25, 2025, as they suffered a shocking 3-1 defeat at home to OGC Nice. This loss not only marked PSG's first home defeat in nearly a year but also ended their remarkable run of 30 consecutive games without defeat in the league.
Having already secured the Ligue 1 title earlier this month, PSG was poised to make history by becoming the first team to finish a French top-flight season unbeaten. However, their ambitions were thwarted by a determined Nice side, who capitalized on their limited chances to claim a crucial victory.
The match started with PSG dominating possession, enjoying 76 percent of the ball and registering over 30 shots on goal. Despite this dominance, they struggled to find the back of the net, thanks in large part to an outstanding performance from Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka, who made several key saves to keep his team in the game.
Nice took the lead in the 34th minute when Morgan Sanson, making his first start of the season, scored with a composed finish after receiving a well-placed through ball from Badredine Bouanani. However, the home side responded quickly, with Fabián Ruiz leveling the score just five minutes later. Ruiz turned inside the box and executed a neat chip over the defense, assisted by Ousmane Dembélé.
But the second half began in disastrous fashion for PSG. Just 22 seconds after the restart, Sanson struck again, this time with a spectacular scissor kick volley that left PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma with no chance. The home side, still reeling from the quick goal, struggled to regain their composure.
As the match progressed, Nice sealed their victory in the 70th minute when Youssouf Ndayishimiye headed home from a free-kick delivered by Bouanani. This goal marked Nice's third and final effort on target, highlighting their efficiency in front of goal compared to PSG's 13 shots on target from a total of 32 attempts.
PSG coach Luis Enrique expressed his disappointment after the match, stating, "For me the result is not fair but that's football, you have to accept it." He acknowledged his team’s attacking efforts but praised Nice’s defensive resilience. "We attacked in many different ways, they defended incredibly well," he added. "We would love to play the same kind of match against Arsenal and have 30 chances, but we have to congratulate Nice and we will do our best to support each other."
The defeat not only ended PSG's unbeaten run but also meant they fell short of equaling the record for the longest unbeaten run from the beginning of a French season, which is still held by Nantes, who went undefeated for 32 matches during their title-winning campaign in 1994/95.
Looking ahead, PSG must quickly put this defeat behind them as they prepare for their Champions League semi-final first leg against Arsenal on April 29, 2025. The return leg will take place at the Parc des Princes on May 7. "The possibility of beating a couple more records was an objective for us in these last few weeks," Enrique admitted. "It wasn't to be, but it does not in any way change our objective of carrying on in the Champions League and getting to the final."
Meanwhile, the victory propelled Nice into fourth place in Ligue 1, equal on points with AS Monaco and just one point behind second-placed Olympique de Marseille. Nice coach Franck Haise lauded his team's achievement, stating, "It is quite an achievement to beat this PSG, with the season they are having, in their own ground."
As the season approaches its climax, both PSG and Nice have much to play for. PSG aims to shake off this setback and focus on their European ambitions, while Nice looks to solidify their position for a Champions League spot next season.
With the stakes higher than ever, fans can expect a thrilling conclusion to the Ligue 1 season, as well as the Champions League campaign. PSG’s resilience will be tested as they seek redemption against Arsenal, while Nice will strive to maintain their momentum in the league.
