Paris Saint-Germain advanced to the next round of the Coupe de France after a dramatic 4-3 victory over Lens in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in regular time. The match was hard-fought, with both teams showcasing resilience and determination. Lens took the lead with a goal from M'Bala Nzola, but PSG responded quickly with an equalizer from Goncalo Ramos, who continued his impressive form in the competition. Ramos' goal leveled the score just minutes after the opener, setting the stage for a tense and closely contested match.
In regular time, PSG dominated possession and created more chances, with an expected goals (xG) of 1.74 from 18 attempts, compared to Lens' 1.05 from 12 shots. Despite this advantage, PSG struggled to break down Lens' defense, and the game ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw, sending it to penalties.
The penalty shootout saw PSG goalkeeper Matvey Safonov step up in the absence of Gianluigi Donnarumma, who was sidelined with an injury. Safonov proved to be the hero of the shootout, saving two crucial penalties from Nzola and Andy Diouf. His performance was key to PSG's progression, and he expressed his happiness after the match, admitting that one of his saves was fortunate to be aided by the bar.
Ramos made history during the match by becoming only the second PSG player to score in three consecutive Coupe de France games as a substitute, with Jacky Remond being the first to achieve this feat in 1970. Ramos' contribution highlighted his importance to the team and his ability to make a difference when called upon.
Luis Enrique, PSG's manager, praised the team's resilience and the effort they put in throughout the match. He acknowledged the physical fatigue but was pleased with how his team managed the challenge, especially in the penalty shootout. "It was a very hard-fought match, difficult for both teams," he said. "Despite the fatigue, we remained competitive, and the penalty-takers showed great determination."
The victory in the Coupe de France provides PSG with a morale boost as they head into the festive break. Enrique expressed satisfaction with the performance of the players, noting that their focus during the penalty shootout was exemplary. "The four penalty-takers were also very determined," he said, emphasizing the importance of their composure under pressure.
With the win, PSG can now look forward to resuming their competitive campaign in January, knowing they have progressed in one of the most prestigious domestic cup competitions. The victory also gives the squad a well-deserved break before the challenges of the new year.
