PSG came into the match as strong favorites, while Brest, making their debut in European competition this season, faced a tough challenge. The game was held at Stade de Roudourou in Guingamp, as Brest’s home stadium did not meet UEFA standards.
Brest had a lucky start to the match when PSG goalie Gianluigi Donnarumma made a mistake that almost led to an own goal. But PSG immediately recovered and were given a penalty in the 17th minute when Pierre Lees-Melou of Brest’s arm was touched by a shot from Ousmane Dembélé inside the box.
The referee reviewed the incident using the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) before confirming the penalty. Midfielder Vitinha stepped up and confidently sent Brest goalkeeper Marco Bizot the wrong way, giving PSG a 1-0 lead.
Brest tried to fight back and had a couple of chances to equalize, but PSG’s defense remained solid. Just before halftime, PSG doubled their lead. Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi made a brilliant run and set up Dembélé, who cut inside from the right and smashed the ball past Bizot at his near post, making it 2-0 at halftime.
Brest started the second half with determination, and their forward Abdallah Sima hit the post early on. But PSG continued to dominate, and in the 66th minute, Dembélé struck again. He attempted to pass to his teammate Bradley Barcola, but the ball bounced back to him, and he took full advantage, firing a shot that deflected past the goalkeeper to make it 3-0.
Dembélé, who has been in exceptional form, now has 23 goals this season, including 10 goals in his last four matches. His outstanding performance has been crucial for PSG, as they remain unbeaten against French opponents since May last year.
PSG will host Brest for the return leg next Wednesday in Paris. With a comfortable 3-0 lead, they are expected to advance to the Round of 16, where they will face either Liverpool or Barcelona. Given their current form, PSG will feel confident about their chances against any opponent.
The goal of reversing the gap, however, is nearly impossible for Brest. They have lost 17 of their last 18 games with PSG and haven’t defeated them since 1985. If they don’t pull off a miracle in Paris next week, their incredible Champions League run may be over.
