NEW DELHI: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured a commanding 5-2 win over AS Monaco on Friday, further solidifying their hold on the top spot in Ligue 1.
Goncalo Ramos, Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Vitinha, and Randal Kolo Muani all found the net for PSG, showcasing a diverse attacking force. Monaco, however, managed to respond with goals from Takumi Minamino and Folarin Balogun.
With this victory, Luis Enrique's side now sits comfortably at the summit of Ligue 1 with 30 points, four points clear of second-placed Nice, who are set to face Toulouse on Sunday. Monaco holds the third position with 24 points.
Speaking in a post-match news conference, Luis Enrique expressed satisfaction with the thrilling encounter, stating, "When two teams of this level play a match like today's, every fan enjoys a game with seven goals."
The PSG manager also praised the team's attitude after the international break, acknowledging the challenges coaches face in preparing for such high-intensity games.
The scoring commenced in the 18th minute as Ramos capitalised on a rebound from Monaco goalkeeper Philipp Kohn. However, Monaco quickly responded with Minamino equalising four minutes later after a mistake by PSG keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Donnarumma redeemed himself with crucial saves throughout the match, with Luis Enrique commending the goalkeeper's exceptional season. Mbappe extended PSG's lead with a penalty in the 39th minute, solidifying his position as Ligue 1's top scorer with 14 goals this season.
Dembele added to the tally 20 minutes from time, followed by Vitinha's superb strike from the edge of the box just two minutes later. Balogun pulled one back for Monaco in the 75th minute, but Kolo Muani sealed the victory for PSG in stoppage time.
Looking ahead, PSG are set to host Newcastle United in a crucial Champions League Group F clash on Tuesday. Luis Enrique emphasised the importance of winning to maintain their top position and enter the Champions League fixture with confidence.
(With inputs from Reuters)
