Ten-man PSG reclaim top spot with statement win over Strasbourg
Paris Saint-Germain produced a champion’s performance at La Meinau. Reduced to ten men for over 20 minutes following Achraf Hakimi’s dismissal, PSG still found the resources to defeat an in-form Strasbourg side (1–2) on Sunday night, reclaiming first place in Ligue 1 at the end of Matchday 20.
Unbeaten in eight matches and outstanding at home in recent weeks, Strasbourg pushed the champions to their limits. But PSG’s defensive solidarity, decisive moments at both ends of the pitch and a heroic display from Matvey Safonov ultimately proved the difference.
High tempo and early drama in Alsace
The match burst into life almost immediately. Strasbourg struck first in terms of chances and were rewarded in the 19th minute when a Marquinhos handball was penalised after a VAR review. Joaquin Panichelli stepped up, but Safonov produced a superb save, swinging the momentum firmly in Paris’ favour.
Three minutes later, PSG struck. Mamadou Sarr’s misjudged clearance fell kindly to Senny Mayulu, who made no mistake with a crisp first-time finish to give the visitors the lead (22’). Strasbourg responded impressively and were level before the half-hour mark, Guéla Doué finishing off a sweeping move that began with goalkeeper Penders (27’).
Both sides continued to attack relentlessly, and the 1–1 scoreline at the break reflected a thrilling, evenly matched first half.
Safonov stands tall as pressure mounts
Strasbourg emerged strongly after the interval. Enciso and Godo repeatedly tested PSG’s defensive structure, forcing Safonov into further important interventions, while Marquinhos made a crucial last-ditch block to deny Godo inside the box.
The match took a dramatic turn in the 76th minute when Achraf Hakimi was shown a straight red card following a VAR review for a high challenge on Panichelli. Down to ten men, PSG reorganised, with Warren Zaïre-Emery dropping into a defensive role as Luis Enrique demanded maximum discipline from his side.
Mendes delivers the decisive blow
Just as Strasbourg looked poised to capitalise on their numerical advantage, PSG struck decisively. In the 81st minute, Lee Kang-in released Zaïre-Emery down the right, and the midfielder delivered a perfect cross to the far post. Nuno Mendes rose unmarked to power home a header, stunning La Meinau and restoring Paris’ lead (1–2).
The final minutes were tense, with Strasbourg throwing everything forward, but PSG’s defensive resolve held firm.
THE STAT: 17 goal involvements for nuno mendes
Nuno Mendes has now been involved in 17 goals in all competitions since the beginning of 2025 with Paris SG (9 goals, 8 assists), only Alejandro Grimaldo (23), Achraf Hakimi (20) and Frederico Dimarco (19) have been more decisive over the period among defenders/fullbacks playing in the European Top 5.
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