PARIS, September 15, 2023 – In a thrilling Ligue 1 encounter on Friday, Terem Moffi of Nice showcased his talent with two goals and an assist, propelling his team to a 3-2 victory over Paris St Germain (PSG). This defeat marked PSG’s first stumble of the season, in a match that had the potential to see them atop the league standings.
PSG’s Title Hopes Dented
Paris St Germain, gearing up for a midweek clash with Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, had an opportunity to provisionally claim the league’s top spot with a victory. However, they now find themselves in third place with eight points, one point adrift of second-placed Nice. AS Monaco leads the league with a two-point advantage and will face Lorient on Sunday.
Luis Enrique Acknowledges Tough Opponent
Commenting on the match, PSG’s coach, Luis Enrique, acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Nice. He praised the visitors, describing them as a physically superior team with a compelling game plan. Nice’s ability to execute counterattacks effectively was particularly commendable.
Moffi Sparks Turnaround
The first half of the game saw PSG firmly in control, with Ousmane Dembele coming close to scoring early on, only to be thwarted by an excellent save from Nice’s goalkeeper, Marcin Bulka. Moments later, Kylian Mbappe’s attempt within the box was blocked. However, the game took a sudden turn when Terem Moffi slotted one home for Nice in the 21st minute, giving them the lead.
Mbappe Levels the Score
PSG didn’t take long to respond, with Mbappe finding the back of the net just before the half-hour mark, bringing PSG level. The Parisians regained momentum and had a chance to take the lead before the halftime whistle, but Mbappe narrowly missed a sliding tackle that would have put them in front.
Laborde and Moffi Seal the Deal
The second half witnessed Gaetan Laborde restoring the lead for Nice with a close-range effort. His goal capitalized on an exquisite ball control and a precise pass from Moffi at a tight angle. Gianluigi Donnarumma, PSG’s goalkeeper, prevented a swift third goal with a crucial save when Sofiane Diop tried his luck from close range. However, Moffi’s ingenuity in the 68th minute outfoxed PSG’s defense, extending Nice’s lead to 3-1.
Mbappe’s Late Heroics
Mbappe rekindled PSG’s hopes with a late goal, three minutes from time. His shot bounced off the ground before nestling inside the far post. In the dying moments of the game, PSG launched a spirited assault on Nice’s box, desperately seeking an equalizer. Despite their efforts, they fell short in both time and precision, unable to salvage a draw.
Nice’s Remarkable Victory
Nice’s victory over PSG was particularly impressive considering PSG’s previous record of not losing any of their last 13 home matches against Nice in all competitions.
Unbeaten Quartet
As the 2023-24 season progresses, Nice stands among the elite, being one of four teams still undefeated in the top-flight Ligue 1, along with Rennes, Olympique de Marseille, and AS Monaco.
