Paris Saint-Germain showcased their resilience and depth in their first competitive match since the departure of Kylian Mbappe to Real Madrid. The defending Ligue 1 champions began their season with a commanding 4-1 victory over Le Havre, demonstrating that the team remains a formidable force despite the absence of their star forward.
The match, held at Le Havre's Stade Océane, saw PSG take an early lead with Lee Kang-in scoring within the first three minutes. This early goal set a positive tone for PSG, giving them a crucial advantage in the Ligue 1 opener. Lee’s swift and decisive strike highlighted his potential to fill the attacking void left by Mbappe.
Le Havre, however, managed to equalize shortly after the half-time break with a goal from Gautier Lloris. This equalizer temporarily shifted the momentum in favor of the home side, creating a brief period of tension for PSG. Despite this setback, the visitors responded strongly and reasserted their dominance.
The final stages of the match saw PSG take control with a series of late goals. Ousmane Dembele, who has been a key acquisition for PSG, netted a crucial goal to regain the lead. His performance underscored his importance in the attacking lineup and his ability to make a significant impact in high-pressure situations.
Bradley Barcola, another new addition to PSG, further extended the lead with a well-timed strike. Barcola’s contribution to the match highlighted his potential to become an integral part of PSG’s offensive strategy this season.
Randal Kolo Muani added a final touch of excellence with a penalty goal, securing a comprehensive 4-1 victory for PSG. The penalty not only sealed the win but also showcased Kolo Muani’s composure and skill in high-stakes moments.
Kylian Mbappe’s departure to Real Madrid on a five-year deal, following his contract expiration with PSG, marked the end of an era for the French club. Mbappe, PSG’s all-time leading goalscorer with 244 goals, left a significant legacy at the club. His move to Real Madrid has undoubtedly shifted the dynamics of PSG’s squad, but the team’s performance in this match suggests a seamless transition and continued strength in the Ligue 1 competition.
PSG’s emphatic win against Le Havre sets a positive precedent for the season ahead, demonstrating their capability to adapt and thrive even without their former star player. The result reflects well on the team’s new signings and their ability to step up and deliver in critical moments.
