Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-03-10 14:42:07
Paris Saint-Germain faced a challenging 2-2 draw against Reims in Ligue 1 on Sunday, marking their third consecutive domestic draw. Despite the draw, PSG managed to extend their lead at the top of the table to 10 points, highlighting their dominance in the league.
The match saw Kylian Mbappe, who had scored both goals in PSG’s midweek victory against Real Sociedad, being rested at kick-off. This decision came after PSG secured their spot in the Champions League quarter-finals with a 2-1 win over Real Sociedad. PSG made six changes from their previous game, and it was evident in the early stages of the match.
Reims took the lead in the seventh minute when Achraf Hakimi lost possession inside his own box, allowing Oumar Diakite to assist Zimbabwe international Marshall Munetsi for the opening goal. However, PSG quickly responded and equalized in the 17th minute. Reims captain Yunis Abdelhamid scored an own goal from Hakimi’s corner under pressure from Goncalo Ramos. PSG then took the lead with Ramos finding the net two minutes later with a deflected shot after Reims’ defense failed to clear a cross from Lee Kang-in.
Despite PSG’s efforts to maintain their lead, Reims managed to equalize just before half-time. Emmanuel Agbadou played a brilliant defense-splitting pass to set up Diakite for the goal, leaving PSG’s stand-in goalkeeper Keylor Navas helpless.
In an attempt to secure the win, PSG coach Luis Enrique brought on Mbappe in the 73rd minute, along with Ousmane Dembele and Randal Kolo Muani. Mbappe, who has been in exceptional form this season with 34 goals in all competitions, had several chances to score but was unable to find the back of the net.
The draw against Reims comes after recent draws with Rennes and Monaco in the league. Despite dropping points, PSG still holds a significant advantage at the top of the table. Their closest challengers, Brest, suffered a 1-0 defeat against Lens, giving PSG a comfortable 10-point lead with only nine matches remaining in the season. Monaco, currently in third place, will have the opportunity to close the gap to one point with a win against Strasbourg later on Sunday.
Overall, PSG’s performance against Reims may not have been flawless, but their dominance in the league remains unquestionable as they continue their quest to defend their Ligue 1 title.
