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RC Lens 1-1 (3-4) PSG: A dramatic clash for the French Cup

Xavier Laine/GettyImages

In a thrilling Round of 16 match in the Coupe de France, PSG faced a tough test against Lens in an away game that left plenty of emotions after regular time.

The match, full of intensity and determination, ended in a 1-1 draw after regular time and was finally decided in a penalty shoot-out, as shown by SofaScore.

PSG secured their place in the next round thanks to the heroic performance of goalkeeper Matvey Safonov.

It was a highly challenging match, and despite it being the first round of the Coupe de France, Luis Enrique fielded his usual starting eleven, making it clear that he values this competition and is taking it with the seriousness it deserves.


Xavier Laine/GettyImages
Xavier Laine/GettyImages

Gonçalo Ramos rescues PSG in regulation time

Lens also came out to compete at their best level and proved to be a tough rival for the Parisians, although they were unable to beat Luis Enrique’s team.

The match saw its first goal in the 66th minute when Lens forward M’Bala Nzola capitalized on a rebound after a powerful shot by Abdukodir Khusanov, giving the home side the lead.

This goal ignited Lens’ hopes of pulling off an upset, but Gonçalo Ramos had other plans. Just four minutes later, the Portuguese striker equalized, reviving PSG’s chances and setting the stage for a dramatic finish.


No pressure for Safonov to replace Donnarumma

Despite dominating possession for much of the match, PSG struggled to break down Lens’ solid defence, leaving the game very evenly balanced considering the significant absence of Gigio Donnarumma.

Safonov, the 25-year-old Russian goalkeeper, emerged as the hero of the night, saving two crucial penalties in the shootout.

PSG ultimately won 4-3, with Lens taking five attempts while PSG only needed four, thanks to Safonov’s brilliance.

Safonov’s saves in the penalty shootout proved decisive, denying Lens twice and ensuring PSG’s progression. This victory marks the end of PSG’s 2024 calendar year and the first half of their season.

With this triumph, PSG closes the year on a high note and now shifts its focus to the next challenge: the Trophée des Champions clash against AS Monaco on January 5.

The team will look to build on their good form as they aim for more silverware in the new year.