PSG thrash Monaco in Ligue 1 thriller

• PSG played host to AS Monaco in a Friday night Ligue 1 action in the return from international break
• Despite coming off a busy international break, both sides seemed freshened up and ready
• A seven-goal thriller went the Parisians’ way with PSG winning 5-2

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) showcased their dominance in Ligue 1 with a commanding 5-2 victory over Monaco at the Parc des Princes, solidifying their position at the top of the league table with a four-point lead. The match was a spectacle of skill, goals, and relentless attacking from PSG, featuring an array of goalscorers that highlighted the depth of their offensive prowess. Kylian Mbappe, played a pivotal role, scoring his 14th goal of the season from the penalty spot.

Heading into the game, the stakes were high, with Monaco trailing PSG by just three points. This set the stage for an intense and closely contested battle between two formidable sides. Monaco, keen to close the gap, contributed significantly to what turned out to be an enthralling encounter. However, PSG’s firepower ultimately proved insurmountable, securing their sixth consecutive league win under the guidance of manager Luis Enrique.

The early moments of the match saw opportunities at both ends, with Goncalo Ramos testing Monaco’s goalkeeper, Philipp Kohn, and Takumi Minamino’s shot for Monaco deflecting into the side netting. Mbappe, a constant threat throughout the season, forced an excellent save from Kohn with a low shot from 12 yards. The ebb and flow of the game continued, with Soungoutou Magassa’s free header from a corner tipped over by Gianluigi Donnarumma, showcasing the intensity of the contest.

PSG forward Ousmane Dembele celebrates after scoring his first Ligue 1 goal in a clash against Monaco on Friday, November 24 2023. | PHOTO: France 24 |

Monaco believed they had broken the deadlock in the 14th minute when Vanderson found the net after Donnarumma spilled Folarin Balogun’s shot. However, the jubilation was short-lived as the goal was disallowed due to Balogun being offside when he received the ball from Aleksandr Golovin. The drama continued as Ousmane Dembele’s shot, spilled by Kohn, allowed Ramos to tap in, giving PSG the lead.

READ: Kylian Mbappe PSG contract saga as talks continue

Monaco responded swiftly, capitalizing on a goalkeeping error. Donnarumma, under pressure from Balogun, cleared straight to Minamino, who equalized with a left-footed strike. The pendulum swung back and forth as Kohn made crucial saves from Mbappe. PSG regained the lead in the 38th minute when Magassa fouled Dembele in the box, leading to Mbappe converting a penalty with precision.

Despite Minamino remaining a persistent threat, testing Donnarumma before and after the interval, it was PSG who extended their lead in quick succession. Dembele showcased his skill, racing onto a quickly-taken free-kick from Fabian Ruiz, flicking the ball forward with his left foot, and then smashing a shot into the far corner with his right from a narrow angle. In less than two minutes, it was 4-1 as Vitinha received Mbappe’s pass and curled a delightful shot from the edge of the area off the post.

Monaco, refusing to concede defeat, pulled one back as Balogun slotted home from Minamino’s pass, securing their third goal in the space of five minutes. The game continued to be an end-to-end battle, with Monaco pushing forward. Denis Zakaria had a golden opportunity with a clear header from Golovin’s corner, but he couldn’t find the target.

However, PSG had the final say as Randal Kolo Muani completed the scoring in injury time after Monaco failed to clear a corner. The victory not only showcased PSG’s attacking prowess but also highlighted the challenges faced by Monaco in containing a formidable opponent. The competitive nature of Ligue 1 was evident throughout, emphasizing the unpredictable and thrilling aspects of top-tier football.

PSG’s 5-2 triumph over Monaco was a statement of their dominance in Ligue 1. The match encapsulated the excitement and unpredictability that football fans crave, with goals, drama, and skill on display. Manager Luis Enrique’s strategic approach and PSG’s relentless offensive force were key factors in securing another crucial victory. As the league season progresses, PSG’s form and consistency make them a formidable force, while Monaco’s resilience and attacking intent promise continued excitement in the race for the Ligue 1 title.