Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) inaugurated their Ligue 1 title defence with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Le Havre at The Stade Oceane in Normandy, marking their first competitive outing since the sensational departure of their talisman Kylian Mbappe to Spanish giants Real Madrid.
The French champions showcased their resilience and depth by swiftly adapting to life after Mbappe, an era many believed would be turbulent for the club. However, Friday’s performance dispelled any doubts about their ability to compete at the highest level without their star forward.
The match got off to a rapid start with Korean forward Lee Kang-in making an immediate impact. Within the first three minutes of play, Lee received a precise pass from midfield and deftly maneuvered around Le Havre’s defenders to place a powerful shot past the goalkeeper, giving PSG an early lead. This was Lee’s first goal for PSG since joining from Mallorca, and it couldn’t have come at a more crucial moment.
Le Havre, showing commendable resolve, did not let the early setback dampen their spirits. They pressed forward and managed to find an equalizer through Gautier Lloris. The 25-year-old French defender capitalized on a defensive lapse from PSG, heading in a corner kick to bring the score to 1-1. The home crowd erupted in celebration, sensing a potential upset on the horizon.
Despite the temporary setback, PSG recalibrated and gradually regained control of the match. Their midfield, orchestrated by the young and talented Warren Zaire-Emery, dominated possession and dictated the tempo of the game. Zaire-Emery’s vision and passing accuracy were pivotal in breaking down Le Havre’s defensive lines time and again.
In the latter stages of the second half, PSG’s persistence paid off. Ousmane Dembele, who joined PSG in the summer transfer window, showcased his exceptional dribbling skills. Dembele picked up the ball on the right flank, evaded two defenders, and curled a left-footed shot into the top corner, regaining the lead for PSG in the 78th minute.
The momentum was now firmly with the Parisians, and they did not relent. Just five minutes later, Bradley Barcola, another summer signing, received a low cross from the left wing.
. Barcola controlled the ball expertly before slotting it past the goalkeeper, extending PSG’s lead to 3-1. The young forward’s goal was met with jubilation from the visiting fans and signaled the sealing of their victory.
As the match neared its conclusion, Le Havre’s defense struggled to contain PSG’s attacking prowess. In the final minutes, PSG was awarded a penalty after a clumsy challenge in the box. Stepping up with confidence, Randal Kolo Muani converted from the spot, adding the final touch to a comprehensive 4-1 victory.
This win was not just a statement of intent from PSG but also a reassurance to their supporters. The departure of Mbappe, arguably one of the world’s best players, had cast a large shadow over the club. However, the team’s cohesive performance highlighted their tactical flexibility and depth, suggesting that they remain a strong contender for domestic and European honors.
The victory also underscored the successful summer recruitment of head coach Luis Enrique, who orchestrated the game plan to perfection. Enrique’s emphasis on high-pressing and fluid attacking play was evident throughout the match, much to the delight of the PSG faithful.
Speaking after the game, Luis Enrique praised his team’s performance and resilience. “I’m very proud of how the team responded today. We have a lot of new faces, and they’ve integrated well. This is just the beginning, and there’s a lot more to come,” Enrique said, hinting at a promising season ahead.
While it’s still early days in the Ligue 1 season, PSG’s performance against Le Havre sends a clear message to their rivals. With a blend of youth, experience, and tactical acumen, the post-Mbappe era at PSG has begun on a very positive note. The reigning French champions demonstrated they are more than capable of defending their title and possibly achieving greater milestones, even in the absence of their former talisman.
