In PSG’s crucial victory against AS Monaco at the Stade Louis II, Ousmane Dembele emerged as the standout player of the match.
Despite past criticisms and media tension surrounding his performances and relationship with manager Luis Enrique, Dembélé delivered a game-defining performance that showcased his immense value to the Parisian squad.
Dembele’s game-changing performance
The French winger played the full 90 minutes in what turned out to be one of his best matches of the season.
Dembele scored twice, first netting the vital 2-2 equalizer in the 64th minute and then sealing the victory with a stunning goal in stoppage time (97’) to make it 4-2.
Cold finish. Ousmane Dembélé. 🥶🤌 pic.twitter.com/VYnS4IZ3Hw
— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) December 18, 2024
Dembélé’s contributions extended beyond just scoring. He demonstrated his commitment on both sides of the ball, working tirelessly in defense and attack.
He had 66 touches, completed 34 out of 42 passes (81% accuracy), and delivered 5 key passes that created crucial opportunities for PSG. His influence in the final third was undeniable, as he consistently put pressure on Monaco’s defense with his pace and creativity.
Room for improvement
While Dembélé’s overall performance was stellar, he did show some areas for improvement. The winger lost possession 22 times, an issue that has been a recurring critique throughout his career.
Despite this, his decision-making in the final third—often under scrutiny—was on point in this match, with his two goals underlining his growing confidence and composure.
A star for the future: Akliouche impresses for monaco
On the Monaco side, Maghnes Akliouche was their brightest spark.
The 22-year-old delivered an outstanding performance, playing a key role in keeping Monaco competitive throughout the match.
His skill, vision, and pace consistently troubled PSG’s defense, and his assist for Breel Embolo’s goal was a testament to his rising potential.
The final verdict
Thanks to PSG’s victory, Ousmane Dembele rightfully claims the title of Man of the Match. His performance not only silenced his critics but also reinforced his importance to PSG’s ambitions this season.
PSG's attack tonight 🔴🔵🔥
🇲🇦 Hakimi: 🅰️
🇫🇷 Doué: ⚽️
🇫🇷 Dembélé: ⚽️⚽️
🇵🇹 Ramos: ⚽️
🇰🇷 Lee Kang-In: 🅰️ pic.twitter.com/FODufmq53E— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) December 18, 2024
Meanwhile, Akliouche’s display for Monaco cements him as one of Ligue 1’s most exciting young talents.
As PSG solidifies their lead at the top of the table, Dembélé’s brilliance serves as a reminder of the team’s depth and quality—a factor that could prove decisive in the race for the Ligue 1 title.
