Paris Saint-Germain earned all three points against Marseille on Sunday on Matchday 24 of Ligue 1. A look back at this excellent victory (0-2).
Four days after their victory over Nîmes, Les Parisiens headed to the south to take part in the 100th ever Classique. For this iconic Ligue 1 battle, Mauricio Pochettino was boosted by the returns of Marco Verratti and captain Marquinhos, and made the most of this to start with a trio of Di Maria, Mbappé and Icardi in attack.
Intensity, electricity and spectacle: all the ingredients of a huge match were thrown into the mix. And from the very get go, Les Parisiens set the scene, immediately taking control of proceedings. They didn't need to wait long to take the lead either! This came from a supersonic Kylian Mbappé, who was set on his way by Angel Di Maria in a rapid counter attack that saw the action move from one end of the pitch to the other (0-1, 10').
Without losing their heads, Kylian Mbappé and his teammates continued to trouble the home side's defence - attack being the best form of defence of their lead. Les Marseillais tried to get back into the game, but without success. Even when Les Phocéens did manage to create chances, the Paris Saint-Germain defence stood strong.... Marquinhos and Kimpembe showing that in this kind of match, you can never give your rival even a sniff of a chance.
Just as you can't afford to pass up on a chance yourself. Mauro Icardi demonstrated that and in what style! Alessandro Florenzi sent in a cross from the right and the Argentine managed to get to the near post to lob a header with the back of his head over Steve Mandanda, who was completely stuck to his line (0-2, 25').
With the additional goal lead, the men from the capital focused on controlling the encounter, while continuing to create chances, like Paredes' powerful effort that crashed against the side of the post (32') or moves that could have led to penalties for Mauro Icardi (60') and Neymar Jr (67'). The playmaker came close to getting the third goal, but his effort missed the target (84'). After Payet's sending off in the opposition's half (90'), the score would remain as it was and Paris ensured the victory in the two side's 100th competitive meeting!
Les Parisiens head back to the capital with the three points in the bag and remain in touch with the trio at the top of the league. A first challenge negotiated ahead of the upcoming matches, which will see Les Rouge et Bleu play across all competitions (Coupe de France, Ligue 1 and Champions League. Mission accomplished!