Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) extended their lead at the top of Ligue 1 with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Lens on Saturday. The victory came thanks to an early goal from Ousmane Dembele, as PSG took full advantage of Monaco’s slip-up against Angers the previous night. With this win, PSG now sits comfortably atop the table with 26 points, creating a six-point cushion over Monaco, who remain in second place.
Dembele struck just four minutes into the game, finishing a well-placed cross from Bradley Barcola after some skillful work on the wing. This was Dembele’s fifth goal of the season, marking a significant improvement from his debut season with PSG last year, where he only managed to score three goals in Ligue 1. His early goal set the tone for PSG, who dominated much of the first half as they looked to increase their lead.
Shortly after the opener, PSG nearly doubled their advantage when Achraf Hakimi found Fabian Ruiz in the box, but Lens goalkeeper Brice Samba saved the shot with a quick reaction. Later, Samba thwarted another PSG attempt, this time from Marco Asensio in the 34th minute, as the hosts continued to pile on the pressure. Despite several attempts, PSG entered halftime with a narrow one-goal lead.
Lens suffered a setback early on when forward Florian Sotoca had to leave the field due to a thigh injury, reducing their attacking options. Matters worsened for the visitors in the second half when Abdukodir Khusanov was shown a red card for a high tackle after a VAR review. Down to 10 men, Lens found it increasingly difficult to mount a comeback against PSG’s defense.
Samba continued to be a standout for Lens, making a crucial fingertip save to deny Barcola in the 73rd minute, keeping his team within reach. However, PSG’s level of intensity dipped slightly as the match wore on, and although they didn’t find a second goal, they successfully managed their lead to secure the three points. With a man advantage, PSG focused on controlling the game and limiting Lens’ chances, ultimately closing out the match in a composed manner.
As PSG stretches its lead in the standings, they further establish themselves as the team to beat in Ligue 1. Luis Enrique’s side has now demonstrated resilience and efficiency, capitalizing on the slip-ups of their closest rivals. Lens, managed by Will Still, remain in seventh place, just outside the European qualification spots, with 14 points.
Later on Saturday, other Ligue 1 fixtures included Nice’s visit to Brest and Saint-Etienne’s home match against Strasbourg, as the French league’s competitive landscape continues to evolve. For now, PSG’s win underscores their dominant position in the title race and highlights Dembele’s growing influence on the team’s attacking front.
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