Ousmane Dembélé's brilliance was on full display as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) defeated Lille 3-0 on Friday, reclaiming the top spot in Ligue 1. The 2025 Ballon d'Or winner scored twice, including a stunning chipped goal that left Lille's goalkeeper, Berke Özer, helpless.
The match, played at the Parc des Princes, saw PSG bounce back from their recent Coupe de France exit against Paris FC. Lille, despite a promising start, succumbed to their third consecutive defeat in all competitions.
Lille nearly took the lead early in the game when Olivier Giroud's shot hit the crossbar. However, it was Dembélé who opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a precise left-footed strike from outside the box that went in off the post. PSG continued to press, but Lille's defense held firm until the second half.
Dembélé's second goal, scored in the 64th minute, was a moment of pure magic. After receiving the ball in the box, Dembélé skillfully evaded three defenders before delicately chipping the ball over the goalkeeper and just under the crossbar. The Parc des Princes erupted in celebration of what some described as a "PlayStation goal". "It's the inspiration of a Ballon d'Or," one report stated, highlighting the exceptional talent of the PSG forward.
Bradley Barcola added a third goal for PSG in stoppage time, capitalizing on a defensive error by Lille. The win lifted PSG two points clear of Lens at the top of the Ligue 1 table.
Following the match, Dembélé said, "I wanted to shoot in one touch. I missed the control a little and I saw the defender coming at me. I put myself on my left foot, I saw the goalkeeper advanced and I took my chance. It worked for me". When asked where he would rank the goal among his others, he responded, "I don't know. There are a few that are nice, but this one isn't bad".
PSG coach Luis Enrique, while acknowledging Dembélé's attacking prowess, emphasized the need for him to contribute defensively as well. "Everyone will say that Ousmane is the best player but for me, no, we still need to see the best version of Ousmane defensively," Enrique said. "Because we need a player like him with a defensive mentality".
Despite recent reports of Dembélé rejecting a new contract offer, Luis Enrique dismissed these rumors as false. Dembélé's performance against Lille demonstrated his focus and commitment to the team.
The victory over Lille was crucial for PSG, settling nerves after their recent cup defeat and reasserting their dominance in Ligue 1. Dembélé's two goals not only secured the win but also showcased his exceptional talent and cemented his status as a key player for the Parisian club.
