In what was arguably the most anticipated clash of the Ligue 1 season, PSG secured a crucial 4-2 victory over AS Monaco in Matchday 16.
This high-stakes encounter between the league’s top two teams delivered on every expectation, showcasing intensity, skill, and drama from start to finish.
A first half of challenges and breakthroughs
The match started with both teams fielding their strongest lineups, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive battle.
The first major incident occurred in the 22nd minute, when PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was forced to leave the pitch after a dangerous challenge by Wilfried Singo, which resulted in a facial cut.
Surprisingly, Singo received no card for the incident, and Matvey Safonov came on to replace the Italian shot-stopper.
Just two minutes later, PSG responded to the adversity with a brilliant attack. Achraf Hakimi delivered a spectacular assist to Desire Doue, who slotted the ball into the net to give PSG a 1-0 lead.
The visitors dominated possession and controlled the tempo throughout the first half, heading into the break with the advantage.
A second half full of twists
AS Monaco came out fighting in the second half, quickly equalizing in the 51st minute. A penalty was awarded after a handball by Marquinhos, and Eliesse Ben Seghir converted with precision, leveling the score at 1-1.
🗣️❤️💙 pic.twitter.com/2Ul76bKiDZ
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) December 18, 2024
The hosts then took the lead just minutes later. Rising star Maghnes Akliouche surged past Marquinhos and delivered a pinpoint cross to Breel Embolo, who finished expertly to make it 2-1 for Monaco.
PSG, however, showed resilience and refused to back down. In the 64th minute, after a powerful shot from Fabián Ruiz was saved by Monaco’s goalkeeper, the rebound fell to Ousmane Dembélé, who tapped it in to bring PSG back to 2-2.
Substitutions make the difference
Manager Luis Enrique turned to his bench for inspiration, and the substitutions proved decisive.
In the 83rd minute, Kang-In Lee delivered a perfect corner, and Gonçalo Ramos—still regaining form after his recent injury—rose to head home the go-ahead goal, putting PSG up 3-2.
⏱️ 90+7' – VICTOIRE ! ❤️💙
Grosse force de caractère de nos Parisiens qui s'imposent à Monaco ! 💪#ASMPSG 2️⃣-4️⃣ I #Ligue1 pic.twitter.com/6DYgIw2Lj9
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) December 18, 2024
In stoppage time, PSG sealed the victory. Fabián Ruiz provided a sublime through ball to Ousmane Dembélé, who raced past Singo and finished with a delicate chip in the 97th minute, securing a 4-2 triumph.
PSG solidify their dominance
With this win, PSG extends their lead at the top of Ligue 1 to 10 points, sitting comfortably with 40 points, while Monaco remains second with 30 points.
This thrilling match not only showcased PSG’s attacking firepower but also highlighted their determination to maintain their unbeaten league record this season.
The Parisian giants have now positioned themselves as clear favorites for the Ligue 1 title and continue to demonstrate why they are one of the strongest teams in Europe.
