PSG had previously defeated Monaco with a 5-4 aggregate score in a playoff last month, securing their 14th consecutive appearance in the Champions League round of 16. However, in their Ligue 1 rematch, the Parisian club failed to replicate that success.

Aleksandr Golovin (left) celebrates a goal during Monaco's 3-1 victory over PSG in Ligue 1 round 25 at Parc des Princes, Paris, France on 6/3. *Photo: AFP*

Monaco capitalized on a costly error from Warren Zaire-Emery in the 27th minute. The French midfielder lost possession inside his own penalty area, leading to an immediate punishment from the visitors. Maghnes Akliouche surged forward to score from close range, giving Monaco the lead and silencing the Parc des Princes crowd.

Early in the second half, Monaco further extended their lead. Russian midfielder Aleksandr Golovin struck a diagonal shot beyond goalkeeper Matvei Safonov's reach, doubling the advantage and intensifying the somber atmosphere at Parc des Princes.

In the 71st minute, Bradley Barcola curled a shot into the near post, narrowing the deficit and sparking hope for PSG. However, just two minutes later, Folarin Balogun, the former Arsenal forward, extinguished that hope with a strike from outside the box, sealing Monaco's 3-1 victory.

Coach Luis Enrique gives instructions during the match. *Photo: PSG*

After the match, coach Luis Enrique admitted that PSG made an unusual number of errors. He stated that he needed to review the game for a full assessment, but his initial feeling was that the team lacked precision at several points. "We made uncharacteristic mistakes. When you face an opponent in good form like Monaco, you pay the price immediately", he said.

According to the Spanish coach, this was a strange match where many PSG players simultaneously underperformed. He emphasized that the entire team must find a way to change and regain confidence as the season enters its crucial phase.

Enrique also conceded that this defeat was not ideal preparation for the Champions League round of 16 first leg against Chelsea on 11/3. "When facing difficulties, the first thing affected is often the mind. Confidence is not something you can buy at the supermarket; it must be built day by day", he said, while expressing confidence that PSG would quickly improve their form.

The loss to Monaco does not impact PSG's position in Ligue 1. The club still leads the league with 57 points, 4 points ahead of Lens, despite having played one more match.

Hong Duy