August 26, (THEWILL) – Paris Saint-Germain emerged victorious in the highly anticipated clash between the top two finishers in Ligue 1 last season, defeating RC Lens 3-1 on Saturday.
The win marks PSG’s first victory of the new campaign, while Lens’ early season struggles continue as they remain winless through three matches. Despite an even start, PSG took control just before half-time when new signing, Marco Asensio, finished off a swift counterattack started by midfielder Vitinha. Asensio was on hand to slot home after the ball fell to 17-year-old Warren Zaire-Emery on the edge of the box.
PSG extended their lead early in the second half through star forward, Kylian Mbappe. A clever one-two with defender Lucas Hernandez down the left wing set up Mbappe to emphatically finish into the top corner.
The champions professionally managed the rest of the match, even as Lens brought on new striker, Elye Wahi, in hopes of sparking their attack. Mbappe grabbed his second late on with a deflected strike before Morgan Guilavogui pulled one back for Lens just before the final whistle.
Manager Franck Haise will be concerned his Lens side lacked the intensity and purpose they showed last season, especially in their draw at PSG’s Parc des Princes. Now winless in three, Lens must rediscover their form from last spring to replicate their second-place finish.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
