Desire Doué delivered an outstanding performance for PSG, scoring twice and assisting in a 6-1 win against Saint-Étienne. Bradley Barcola showcased his playmaking skills with three assists, while Lucas Stassin stood out for the Greens despite their overall poor performance. The second half saw Saint-Étienne collapse defensively, with key players like Gauthier Larsonneur and Tardieu struggling significantly, contributing to the team’s defeat.
TOPS
Desire Doué Shines Bright
The young Parisian talent has been dazzling on the field in recent matches. After a slow start, Desire Doué burst into action, helping his team secure a remarkable 6-1 victory against the Greens. With two goals to his name, including an exquisite solo effort for the fifth goal, Doué also created five goal-scoring opportunities and touched the ball 97 times, showcasing an impressive performance. As the new French international continues to excel towards the end of the season, he is poised to lead PSG to greater heights, much to the admiration of coach Luis Enrique, who is continually impressed by the young midfielder’s abilities.
Barcola’s Generous Spirit
Although Bradley Barcola didn’t find the net during the match in Saint-Étienne—his shot hitting the bar—his selflessness shone through as he delivered three vital assists. Two of those assists went to Desire Doué, with another for young Mbaye towards the end, all originating from his left flank after displaying some remarkable skills. With 3 chances created, 59 touches, and minimal waste, Barcola demonstrated his complete range of play and tactical awareness. He now stands as the league’s top assist provider, sharing the honor with Lyon’s Ryan Cherki, each boasting 9 assists.
Stassin’s Standout Performance
While many Parisians impressed in the second half, including Doué and Barcola, Stéphanois Lucas Stassin’s performance deserves special recognition. He scored a stunning header to kick off the scoring in the first half and remained a consistent threat, contributing to all the positive plays for the Greens. He even earned a penalty in the second half, which was unfortunately overturned by VAR. With a commendable tally of four shots, two on target, and two fouls suffered, Stassin proved his capability to challenge defenses, showcasing resilience despite his team’s overall lackluster performance.
FLOPS
Stéphanois’s Disastrous Second Half
After a promising first half at Geoffroy-Guichard, the Greens crumbled completely. They were overpowered physically in both defense and midfield, ultimately handing the Parisians an easy victory. A glaring mistake by Cardona led to the first goal for Doué, reflecting the team’s collapse. The second half was a nightmare, conceding five goals at home without putting up a fight. Tardieu had a particularly challenging evening, being at fault for the penalty scored by Ramos and struggling throughout. He was substituted in the 63rd minute, along with Batumbisnika, who was lackluster during Doué’s second goal.
Larsonneur’s Tough Night
Gauthier Larsonneur, the Greens’ goalkeeper, managed only one notable save against Ramos in the first half. Unfortunately, he was left exposed by his defense and endured a disastrous second half, conceding four goals within twenty minutes post-break. There will be better days ahead for Larsonneur, but this match highlighted the struggles faced against the relentless attacks of Barcola and his teammates.