Les Parisiens tame their rivals from Marseille

In the midst of this whirlwind of big matches, the thrills of the Champions League gave way to an electric Classique. The Parc des Princes welcomed back its beloved team for a prestigious showdown that Paris Saint-Germain fans always mark in advance on their calendars. Luis Enrique had concocted a highly attacking starting eleven to challenge their Marseille rivals. A surprising line-up with a 3-man defence and 4 players with attacking capabilities: Kylian Mbappé, Randal Kolo Muani, Ousmane Dembélé, and the young Bradley Barcola, making his first start in his new jersey.

Of course, there was tension in the air, and the early proceedings demonstrated the unique flavour of this encounter. But Classique or not, Paris Saint-Germain had a game plan to stick to! For Luis Enrique, the challenge was not about adapting to the opponent - no matter how unique they may be - but rather about imposing our game with a clear philosophy. Once again, our Rouge et Bleu gave their all to extensively apply their high pressing, regain possession of the ball very quickly, and suffocate their rival.

And this domination quickly materialised thanks to a stroke of genius! Already decisive against Dortmund on Wednesday, Achraf Hakimi sent the Parc des Princes into ecstasy with a marvellous free-kick right into the top corner! (1-0, 8'). Devastating one-twos, bewildering dribbles, low crosses... Les Parisiens were playing total football! But at the other end of the pitch, the opposition remained valiant and played their chances boldly, just like Vitinha, whose header hit the Gigio Donnarumma's crossbar (21').

A reminder that the job was far from being done for our Rouge et Bleu. Especially since Luis Enrique was forced to replace Kylian Mbappé, due to injury, and bring on Gonçalo Ramos. So, it was with an unprecedented attacking quartet, who had never before experienced the Classique, that Paris continued their assault. These changes did not in the slightest diminish the motivation of our players, as the second goal didn't take long to come! After another missile from Achraf Hakimi, the powerful shot from the Moroccan rebounded off the post before Randal Kolo Muani, in a perfect position, pounced on the ball to open his account with Paris Saint-Germain (2-0, 37'). Magical!

The second half began in the same magnificent fashion as the first! Ousmane Dembélé, like a fast-speed train, sprinted down the wing, and his cross found the powerful header of Gonçalo Ramos,  who also scored for the first time in the red and blue jersey! (3-0, 47'). A splendid way to mark his arrival into the match! The Portuguese even completed his brace by elegantly finishing with the outside of his foot after a beautifully orchestrated counter-attack initiated by Randal Kolo Muani (4-0, 89'). 

What else can be said about this incredible football match? We could continue to count the chances, describe the thrills, and try to capture the volcanic atmosphere that hung over Parc des Princes. But in the end, what we will remember is the dedication of an entire team, the boldness of a coach, and the joy of the fans. And that would be enough.

It was a great moment. A pivotal evening that our Red and Blue team negotiated in the most impressive way, delivering a performance full of courage to continue their journey, step by step. After three matches in front of their home crowd, the next leg of their adventures will take them to Clermont, followed by the return of European football and a trip to the north of England, to Newcastle...