PSG's Resilient 3-1 Win Over Rennes in Ligue 1

 PSG's Resilient 3-1 Win Over Rennes in Ligue 1

Achraf Hakimi #2 of Paris Saint-Germain celebrates his first goal with Goncalo Ramos during the Ligue 1 Uber Eats match between Stade Rennais FC and Paris Saint-Germain at Roazhon Park on October 08, 2023 in Rennes, France(Image-Getty)

 "PSG Bounces Back with Convincing Win Over Rennes in Ligue 1"

Paris St Germain (PSG) showcased their resilience with a resounding 3-1 victory against Rennes, thanks to an impressive performance by Achraf Hakimi on Sunday. The win propelled PSG to third place in Ligue 1, just two points behind league leaders AS Monaco.

PSG had narrowly missed securing the top spot the previous weekend, as they settled for a goalless draw against Clermont Foot. Their midweek Champions League clash was even more disheartening, with a 4-1 loss to Newcastle United. However, PSG exhibited no signs of a hangover from these setbacks.

The opening goal came as Ousmane Dembele embarked on a dazzling run, slicing through the Rennes defense with remarkable skill. Dembele's precise pass found Vitinha, who capitalized on the opportunity, curling the ball into the top corner from the edge of the box, giving PSG a 1-0 lead in the 32nd minute.

In a blink of an eye, PSG struck again just four minutes later. This time, it was right-back Achraf Hakimi who made a remarkable play, eluding Rennes' defense with ease and heading in a cross from 17-year-old sensation Warren Zaire-Emery, leaving the Roazhon Park crowd in stunned silence.

Rennes made a spirited effort to claw back into the game after the halftime break, finding their lifeline in the 56th minute. Capitalizing on a loose pass, Amine Gouiri connected with Ludovic Blas's cross with a well-placed header, narrowing the deficit to 2-1.

However, PSG's manager, Luis Enrique, introduced Randal Kolo Muani into the game shortly after, and the forward made an instant impact. Muani wasted no time, scoring with a clinical finish from Hakimi's well-timed pass. This swift response left Rennes in disarray and their coach, Bruno Genesio, visibly frustrated on the bench.

Despite PSG's dominance, Kylian Mbappe had a couple of late opportunities denied by Rennes' goalkeeper Steve Mandanda. Mbappe also missed the target in his desperation to find a goal.

Rennes' defeat in this encounter leaves them in the eighth position in the Ligue 1 standings, while PSG's impressive comeback sends a clear message of intent as they continue to chase the top spot.