Monaco stunned dominant league leaders Paris Saint Germain with a commanding 3-1 victory at the Parc des Princes, thanks to clinical finishing and a superb team effort.
Monaco delivered a significant upset in Ligue 1, defeating Paris Saint Germain 3-1 at Parc des Princes. Maghnes Akliouche starred, scoring the opener and assisting another goal. This result halted PSG's impressive run.
Paris Saint Germain entered as runaway league leaders, comfortably in first place. Monaco arrived in seventh position, but boasted strong recent form. They aimed to challenge the champions at home.
Paris Saint Germain controlled possession from kickoff. However, Monaco showed early counter-attack intent, their tactical approach clear. Defensive discipline frustrated PSG's star offense.
Monaco drew first blood in the 27th minute. Folarin Balogun provided a clever assist to Akliouche. He calmly slotted the ball past Gianluigi Donnarumma, giving Monaco a crucial lead.
PSG pushed for an equalizer, creating chances before halftime. Nuno Mendes had a dangerous shot saved. Monaco's Wout Faes received a yellow card in the 45+4 minute. Monaco held their one-goal advantage at the break.
PSG needed a quick second-half response. Coach Luis Enrique likely demanded more urgency and precision. Monaco sought to maintain their shape and capitalize on counter opportunities.
Monaco extended their lead early, stunning the home crowd. Midfielder Aleksandr Golovin fired home a well-taken goal in the 55th minute. This put Monaco two goals ahead, bolstering confidence.
Paris Saint Germain responded with triple substitutions around the 60th minute. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé, and Desire Doue entered the fray. Their efforts paid off in the 71st minute. Bradley Barcola pulled a goal back for PSG, assisted by Achraf Hakimi.
However, Monaco quickly extinguished PSG's hopes. Just two minutes later, in the 73rd minute, Folarin Balogun scored for Monaco. This restored their two-goal cushion, demonstrating Monaco's clinical edge.
Paris Saint Germain commanded 72% possession and registered 19 shots. However, Monaco proved more efficient. The visitors managed 11 total shots, six on target, and had a higher xG of 1.26 to PSG's 1.09. Goalkeeper Philipp Köhn made four crucial saves.
This stunning 3-1 victory is a huge statement win for Monaco, boosting their European qualification hopes. For Paris Saint Germain, it marks a rare home defeat, prompting re-evaluation for upcoming fixtures.
