In the 7th minute, following a missed shot by Ousmane Dembele, Neves controlled the ball with two touches before executing a bicycle kick that sent the ball into the far corner, leaving the Toulouse goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
Seven minutes later, Neves struck again. From Achraf Hakimi's right-wing cross, the Portuguese midfielder chested the ball down and unleashed another bicycle kick, this time sending the ball into the left corner. Goalkeeper Guillaume Restes was once again left stunned, unable to react as the ball found the back of the net.
Two magnificent bicycle kicks from Joao Neves during PSG's 6-3 win over Toulouse in round three of Ligue 1 at the Municipal Stadium, Toulouse, France, 30/8/2025.
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Bradley Barcola (red shirt) scores to make it 2-0. Photo: *Reuters* |
Neves completed his hat-trick in the 78th minute with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area. This time, Restes managed to get a hand to the ball, but the shot was too powerful to save.
It was Neves' first career hat-trick, equaling his Ligue 1 goal tally from the previous season. "I'm very happy with the victory and my first hat-trick," the 20-year-old player expressed. "I'm pleased with the bicycle kick goals. It's something I've practiced a lot, and today it paid off."
Coach Luis Enrique also praised his player. He said, "Joao's hat-trick wasn't just about the three goals, but also how he scored them. It was incredible. I think that's an aspect Joao can and should continue to develop, and I believe he will."
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At the Municipal Stadium on 30/8, PSG dominated possession with 76%, taking 13 shots with 8 on target, compared to Toulouse's 14 shots and 6 on target. In addition to Neves' performance, Ousmane Dembele contributed with two penalty goals. PSG's other goal came from Bradley Barcola, who used his pace and a strong right-footed finish.
For the first time in their history, PSG scored three goals in the opening 15 minutes of a match across all competitions. After competing in the FIFA Club World Cup and having a disrupted pre-season, Enrique was pleased to see his team regaining their form.
"It was predictable that there would be some lapses in concentration towards the end of the match, but I don't like it," the Spanish coach stated. "However, we must acknowledge that the opponent played well and showed quality. Step by step, through training sessions and matches, we need to regain our top level. I think the team started the game in the best possible way, with good play and a desire to score."
PSG now have 9 points and sit at the top of the Ligue 1 table. After the international break, Enrique's team will face Lens in round four at home at Parc des Princes on 14/9.
Hong Duy
