Paris beaten in Rennes
Paris Saint-Germain failed to win away to Stade Rennais on matchday 19 of Ligue 1, but still managed to stay in the lead (0-1). Here's a look back at the match.
In the midst of a marathon schedule in all competitions, Paris Saint-Germain stopped off in Brittany to take on one of the most dangerous teams in Ligue 1. Facing their nemesis Stade Rennais, who are unbeatable at home, our Rouge et Bleu were well aware of the task ahead of them. And to deal with it, Christophe Galtier put together an innovative line-up with the players available, making up for the absence of Marco Verratti by giving Warren Zaire-Emery his first start in Ligue 1.
In a Roazhon Park buoyed by a passionate crowd, the stage was quickly set. And for those who still had doubts, it proved that this Rennes-PSG match would be no easy task for the autumn champions. Although Leo Messi tried to create chances, and Warren Zaire-Emery showed no fear in his first game in the top flight, it was the locals who took control of the first half. It was our former player, Arnaud Kalimuendo, who was the first to cause danger in the Parisian area, before Traoré and Gouiri both tried to find the back of the net, forcing Gigio Donnarumma to make precious saves on each occasion (27', 32', 39').
After the break, the situation had not changed, but the pace of the game increased even more. It must be said that the scoreline did not do justice to both teams' attacking intent. But unfortunately it was the home side who took advantage of this wild spell. Traoré was on the receiving end of a Truffert cross for the opener (1-0, 64').
With their backs against the wall, our Rouge et Bleu tried to fight back, led by Kylian Mbappé in an attempt to get back into the game. The Ligue 1's top scorer was sent on by Christophe Galtier just before the hour mark, as was Achraf Hakimi. The French international came close to equalising with a shot that flew wide after a sharp run in behind from deep (68').
Until the end, the Rouge et Bleu threw everything they had into the fight, in heavy rain. But their efforts did not pay off. Paris Saint-Germain suffered their second defeat of the season in an intense match against a courageous opponent. They will not have time to ponder, however, as the next round of matches will come very quickly, both in the Coupe de France and in Ligue 1...