Nice Ends PSG’s Unbeaten Ligue 1 Streak with Impressive Performance in Paris
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Synopsis
Paris Saint-Germain's unbeaten run in Ligue 1 ended with a 3-1 defeat to Nice at the Parc des Princes on April 26. PSG had already secured the title, but this loss halted their impressive 30-match streak, while Nice strengthened their Champions League prospects with a vital win.
Key Takeaways
- PSG's unbeaten Ligue 1 run ends at 30 matches.
- Nice secures a crucial victory to enhance Champions League hopes.
- Morgan Sanson shines with two goals for Nice.
- PSG dominated possession but struggled with finishing.
- Goalkeeper Marcin Bulka's performance was key for Nice.
Paris, April 26 (NationPress) Paris Saint-Germain's quest to be the first team to complete a Ligue 1 season without a loss concluded in frustration on Saturday (IST), as they faced a 3-1 defeat against Nice at the Parc des Princes. Even though PSG had secured the title earlier this month, this defeat halted their remarkable 30-match unbeaten run in the league. PSG still leads the Ligue 1 standings with 78 points while Nice has surged to fourth place with 54 points, enhancing their Champions League aspirations.
The home team started strong, dominating the opening half-hour and generating numerous opportunities. However, it was the visitors who struck first, with Morgan Sanson scoring during his first start of the season, finishing clinically from a Badredine Bouanani through-ball in the 35th minute.
Just six minutes later, Fabian Ruiz equalized with a stunning half-volley, but the PSG supporters' hopes of a comeback were dashed just 22 seconds into the second half when Sanson netted his second goal, volleying the ball home from close range.
Having scored with their only two shots on target until that moment, the visitors extended their lead to 3-1 when Youssouf Ndayishimiye scored a header from a free kick in the 70th minute.
Nice displayed exceptional finishing, converting both of their shots on target up to that point. They solidified their lead in the 70th minute when Ndayishimiye headed in a free kick, making it 3-1.
PSG, gearing up for a Champions League semi-final first leg against Arsenal in London on Tuesday, dominated possession with 75% and created double the chances, but were thwarted by poor finishing and a stellar performance from goalkeeper Marcin Bulka.
In stoppage time, Bulka showcased his skills by denying Goncalo Ramos with a remarkable reflex save and then stopping a powerful strike from Vitinha, celebrating each save with enthusiasm.
Despite a late offensive push from PSG, Nice maintained their composure to secure a crucial victory. Coach Luis Enrique had stated before the match that he would accept a loss to Nice if it meant reaching the Champions League final. After the match, he remained composed despite the end of their historic unbeaten streak.
"We attacked in various ways, and they defended exceptionally well... we hope to replicate this type of match against Arsenal and create 30 chances, but we have to congratulate Nice and will do our utmost to support each other," he shared with broadcaster DAZN.
