This match was dubbed "the closest derby in the world." PSG's Parc des Princes stadium and Paris FC's Stade Jean-Bouin are merely 44 meters apart, less than half the length of a football pitch. The two stadiums face each other, separated only by a street. Paris FC players could simply walk to play their city rivals.

The two teams had not met for nearly half a century, since 1978, yet they faced each other twice in less than two weeks. On 4/1, PSG secured a 2-1 victory over Paris FC in Ligue 1 round 17. However, the rematch at Parc des Princes on 12/1/2026 saw a complete and unexpected reversal of fortunes.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia dribbles during PSG's 0-1 loss to Paris FC in the French Cup round of 16 at Parc des Princes, Paris, France on 12/1/2026. Photo: PSG

Coach Luis Enrique deployed a near full-strength lineup, featuring key players such as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Vitinha, and Euro 2024 champion Fabian Ruiz. In the second half, 2025 Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele, Nuno Mendes, and Desire Doue were introduced to intensify pressure and find a goal.

PSG dominated the match, controlling possession for 70%, taking 25 shots, and creating six clear chances. Yet, they failed to convert. In contrast, Paris FC managed only four shots throughout the game, but their composure and a moment of brilliance delivered the biggest shock in French football this season.

The turning point arrived in the 74th minute. From a rare counter-attack, Jonathan Ikone entered the penalty area and fired a diagonal shot past goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier, silencing Parc des Princes. Ikone chose not to celebrate, but his goal was enough to plunge PSG into despair.

This defeat ended PSG's home unbeaten streak in the French Cup, which had stood since 2022. It also marked their first elimination from the round of 16 in over a decade, since 2014. The club, holding a record 16 titles in the competition, was officially dethroned, and their dream of achieving a sextuple in 2025 was shattered.

Ironically, the player who delivered this blow to PSG was Jonathan Ikone, a product of their own academy who had made seven first-team appearances in Ligue 1. "We are truly happy. The whole team defended very well," the French forward told France Televisions after the match. "I am happy to score. It is pure happiness, and I hope this is not my last goal."

Goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier reacts in disappointment after Jonathan Ikone scores. Photo: AFP

Meanwhile, coach Luis Enrique did not hide his disappointment, though he still defended his players' performance. "I am disappointed with the result and our inability to score. But in terms of how we played, this was a very high-quality match. We were the better team and created many chances," he said.

The Spanish coach emphasized that PSG had controlled the match, particularly in the first half. Enrique stated: "We pressed very well, completely controlled the game, and delivered a very complete performance. I am disappointed with the result because we did not deserve to lose this match. But football is sometimes very cruel, and today is a clear example."

On 16/1, PSG will continue their home fixtures, facing Lille in Ligue 1 round 18.

Hong Duy