Dembele’s decisive strike sends PSG Past Paris FC 2-1

KATHMANDU: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over local rivals Paris FC at the Parc des Princes, thanks to a decisive second-half goal from Ousmane Dembélé.

The Ballon d’Or winner struck early in the second half to hand coach Luis Enrique’s side all three points, keeping PSG hot on the heels of Ligue 1 leaders Lens, now just one point behind.

The first half saw drama as PSG thought they had won a penalty in the 30th minute, but VAR ruled the foul had occurred outside the box.

Former PSG goalkeeper Kevin Trapp also made a crucial save from Senni Mayulu’s strike.

PSG had initially taken the lead just before halftime, when Desiré Duele converted Fabian Ruiz’s pass.

However, Paris FC quickly responded at the start of the second half. In the 51st minute, Ilia Jabarny fouled Alimami Gory in the box, allowing Willem Geubbels to convert the penalty and level the score.

Just two minutes later, Dembélé broke the deadlock, cutting in from the right wing; his shot deflected off defender Mustafa Mbou into the net.

PSG defender Nuno Mendes came close to extending the lead, but Trapp was equal to the effort.

The win keeps PSG in the title race, maintaining pressure on Lens as the Ligue 1 season enters its crucial stages.