PSG maintain Ligue 1 lead with win on Mbappe's birthday
The win at Parc des Princes helped PSG maintain their dominance at the top of the league table with a five-point lead
December 21, 2023
Kylian Mbappe celebrated his 25th birthday in style, scoring twice to lead Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to a 3-1 victory against Metz in the Ligue 1 showdown on Wednesday.
The win at Parc des Princes helped PSG maintain their dominance at the top of the league table, ending the year with a comfortable five-point lead.
The match ignited in the second half after a goalless first period, with Vitinha striking early for the hosts, capitalizing on Lee Kang-in's cross to put PSG ahead. Mbappe then stole the spotlight, doubling PSG's lead with an exquisite shot from the edge of the box, showcasing his skill and precision.
Despite a spirited effort from Metz, Matthieu Udol managed to pull one back, offering a glimmer of hope for the visitors. However, Mbappe's relentless pursuit sealed the fate of the match, taking advantage of a defensive error to round the goalkeeper and secure his brace, marking his 18th league goal this season.
Adding to Mbappe's joyous occasion was the debut of his younger brother Ethan, who made his senior appearance during stoppage time, making it a memorable family moment.
PSG's triumph concludes the first half of the season with a significant lead at the top, maintaining a five-point cushion over their closest rivals, Nice, who secured a 2-0 win against Lens. Monaco, positioned third, sit seven points adrift following their comeback victory against Toulouse.
In other Ligue 1 clashes, Brest soared to fourth place after an impressive 4-0 win over Lorient, thanks to Kamory Doumbia's four-goal spectacle in the first half. Strasbourg dealt a blow to Lille with a 2-1 victory, as Marseille settled for a 1-1 draw against Montpellier after an interruption caused by disruptive fireworks at the stadium, prompting criticism from Montpellier's coach.
Elsewhere, Reims secured a 1-0 win against Le Havre, Rennes claimed a late 3-1 triumph over bottom-dwellers Clermont, and Lyon climbed out of the relegation zone with a 1-0 win against Nantes, courtesy of an Alexandre Lacazette strike.
