Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) delivered a masterclass of attacking football on Friday night, thrashing Montpellier 6-0 at the Parc des Princes. The dominant display underscored PSG’s formidable start to the season, even in the absence of their star forward Kylian Mbappe.
The match saw Bradley Barcola score twice, with Marco Asensio, Achraf Hakimi, Warren Zaire-Emery, and Lee Kang-in also adding to the tally. PSG’s performance was a statement of intent, showing that their title aspirations remain intact despite the significant departure of Mbappe.
Luis Enrique’s ‘Perfect’ Night
Luis Enrique, PSG’s coach, praised his team’s performance, describing it as “perfect.” His satisfaction was evident as he reflected on the match. “We had 16 stars tonight, all the players who took part. Sixteen stars in attack and in defense, that is perfection, and that is what we are looking for,” Enrique said.
PSG’s squad, brimming with young talent, was particularly impressive. The lineup included two teenagers and eight players aged between 18 and 25, highlighting the club’s commitment to integrating youth into their first team. Among the standout performers was 19-year-old Joao Neves, who made his first start for the club. Neves, a recent recruit from Benfica for a fee that could reach 69.9 million euros, was instrumental in the team’s fluid attacking play.
Montpellier Overwhelmed
Montpellier, who are struggling financially, were unable to match PSG’s intensity and quality. The disparity between the two teams was evident from the early minutes. Barcola opened the scoring within four minutes with a deft first-time finish, setting the tone for a dominant PSG display.
The second goal came shortly after, showcasing the fluidity of PSG’s attack. Barcola’s pass from the left found Neves, whose clever lay-off allowed Asensio to score. As the game progressed, PSG’s dominance continued, with the third goal arriving eight minutes into the second half. Asensio’s pass to Ousmane Dembele led to another assist for Barcola, further demoralizing Montpellier.
The floodgates opened by the hour mark. Hakimi scored with a sidefoot volley from Nuno Mendes’ cross, and Zaire-Emery added a spectacular finish after nutmegging Kiki Kouyate. Lee, who had come off the bench, rounded off the scoring with a powerful strike from the edge of the area on 82 minutes.
A Bright Future Without Mbappe
Despite the departure of their all-time top scorer Mbappe, PSG’s performance suggests a bright future. The team’s attacking prowess and defensive solidity indicate that they are well-equipped for their pursuit of an 11th French title in 13 seasons.
PSG’s strong start to the season is also reflected in their overall performance. They have scored 10 goals in their first two games, demonstrating that their squad depth and tactical flexibility under Enrique are proving effective. The recent investment in new players, including the significant spending on Neves and Desire Doue, both 19, shows PSG’s strategy to build a team capable of competing at the highest level.
Financial Disparities and Next Steps
Montpellier’s struggle highlights the financial imbalance within Ligue 1. The club’s limited budget, exacerbated by a reduced domestic broadcast deal, makes it challenging for them to compete with PSG’s financial muscle. Montpellier’s president, Laurent Nicollin, revealed that the club will receive just seven million euros from television this season, underscoring the financial gulf.
The match concluded with PSG showcasing their attacking might, setting a high bar for the rest of the season. As Ligue 1 action continues this weekend, with Lyon facing Monaco, Lille meeting Angers, and Saint-Etienne playing Le Havre, the focus will be on whether PSG can maintain their impressive form. Marseille, who won 5-1 in their opener, will also be in action against Reims, adding to the weekend’s football excitement.
PSG’s emphatic victory is a clear indication that, even without Mbappe, the team remains a dominant force in French football.
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