A fantastic goal from Kylian Mbappe and a goal from Lee Kang-in led Paris Saint-Germain to a 2-0 victory over Toulouse, securing the Trophee des Champions.
In a stylish manner, PSG opened the scoring within three minutes at the Parc des Princes, with Lee calmly slotting in Ousmane Dembele’s cross after a well-worked team play.
Although Toulouse struggled to push beyond their own half, they posed a threat and hit the post through Thijs Dallinga, signaling a slight sense of danger for PSG.
However, Mbappe essentially settled the game just before half-time; receiving the ball 25 yards from goal, he bypassed three defenders, shrugged off another, and skillfully struck the ball past the goalkeeper.
Toulouse dominated the second half but failed to convert their efforts into a goal, as PSG focused on managing the game and nearly added a third when Achraf Hakimi hit the post from a long-range free kick.
This marks PSG’s 12th Trophee des Champions triumph, and they aim to build on this success with more trophies this season. Leading Ligue 1 by five points, their next challenge lies in the UEFA Champions League last 16 against Real Sociedad, followed by their Coupe de France campaign against sixth-tier Revel on Sunday.
Point of Discussion – Luis Enrique’s first win at PSG
PSG managers are primarily evaluated based on their UEFA Champions League performance, with domestic silverware being a prerequisite. This victory marks a first for the new manager, despite the team’s inconsistent form this season.
Beyond claiming the Trophee des Champions, PSG’s performance showcased one of their finest displays this season. New signings, especially Lee and Dembele, excelled in an impressive attacking showcase, hinting at a promising future. Additionally, the brief debut of 20-year-old Lucas Beraldo, who looked comfortable in the heart of defense, provided further optimism.
Although it may not receive much acknowledgment, this was a significant evening for Luis Enrique and his PSG transformation.
Man of the Match – Kylian Mbappe (PSG)
When PSG struggled to secure the crucial second goal, Mbappe delivered in style. Apart from his goal, his link-up play was commendable, and his presence created space for Lee, Dembele, and others.
Player ratings
PSG: Donnarumma 6, Hakimi 7, Skriniar 5, Marquinhos 7, Hernadnez 5, Vitinha 7, Zaire-Emery 6, Barcola 5, Lee 8, Dembele 7, Mbappe 8. Subs: Asensio 6, Kolo Muani 5, Beraldo 7.
Toulouse: Restes 7, Mawissa 5, Diarra 6, Nicolaisen 5, Suazo 5, Casseres 6, Spierings 5, Gelabert 5, Donnum 6, Sierro 5, Dallinga 7. Subs: Magri 4, Skytta 6, Kamanzi 5, Cissoko 4.
Match highlights
GOAL! PSG 1-0 TOULOUSE (LEE) 3′ – PSG takes the lead in an elegant manner! Vitinha finds Dembele with an impressive cross-field pass, and Dembele volleys the ball back across the goal for Lee to calmly finish.
OFF THE POST! 37′ – Dallinga’s long-range shot is blocked, but he makes a clever run, receives the ball from Donnum, and takes a first-time snapshot that Donnarumma tips onto the near post.
GOAL! PSG 2-0 TOULOUSE (MBAPPE) 44′ – Splendid play from Mbappe! Collecting the ball 25 yards from goal, Mbappe evades three defenders, holds off a fourth, and then fires into the far corner! Unstoppable.
OFF THE POST! 56′ – Hakimi lines up a free kick, 35 yards out, strikes it well, and watches the ball rebound off the post! It would have been a sensational goal – Restes was nowhere near it.
