PSG Edge Metz 3-2 in Nail-Biter to Surge to Ligue 1 Summit

Paris Saint-Germain reclaimed the top spot in Ligue 1 with a tense 3-2 victory over bottom-placed Metz at Stade Saint-Symphorien on Saturday, showcasing resilience despite twice seeing a two-goal lead evaporate.[1][2][3]

The match kicked off with Metz holding firm defensively, conceding just seven of their league-high 34 goals at home prior to kickoff. PSG's first real chance came in the 18th minute when Gonçalo Ramos' flicked header was smartly saved by goalkeeper Jonathan Fischer, but the breakthrough arrived in the 31st minute. Lee Kang-in delivered a precise cross from a short corner, allowing Ramos to head home powerfully past Fischer.[1][2][5]

Eight minutes later, Quentin Ndjantou doubled PSG's advantage, tapping in a low cross from Ibrahim Mbaye after skipping away from his marker on the left flank. This marked Ndjantou's first goal for the club. However, Metz struck back dramatically three minutes before halftime. A blocked shot from Habib Diallo fell to Jessy Deminguet on the edge of the box, whose clean first-time strike flew into the roof of the net, halving the deficit.[1][2][3]

After the break, substitute Désiré Doué restored PSG's two-goal cushion in the 63rd minute. From a rapid counter sparked by a corner, Doué sprinted through and calmly guided the ball past Fischer.[1][2][5] PSG nearly put the game beyond doubt when Mbaye's fierce effort cannoned off the crossbar, followed by Fischer denying Doué's follow-up.[2]

Metz ensured a nervy finish, pulling one back in the 81st minute through Giorgi Tsitaishvili. After a sumptuous one-two with Gauthier Hein, Tsitaishvili curled a right-footed shot into the bottom corner. Despite the late pressure, PSG held on for the vital three points.[1][2][3]

The win propels PSG to 36 points from 16 matches, provisionally two points clear of Lens, who face Nice on Sunday. Metz remain rooted to the bottom with 11 points from 15 games.[1][3][4] This result extends PSG's dominance over Metz, marking their 15th consecutive Ligue 1 win against the side.[5]

Standout performers included Ramos, Ndjantou, and Doué for PSG, with Lee Kang-in impressing in his contributions against Metz. The champions demonstrated tenacity under Luis Enrique, vital in their title defense.[2][5]