- Barcola shines as PSG lift 16th French Cup.
- PSG thrash Reims before Inter Milan showdown.
- Another treble secured for Luis Enrique’s PSG.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) put in a assured display before their Champions League final by beating Reims 3-0 in the French Cup decider on Saturday.
Held at the famous Stade de France, more than 77,000 supporters watched PSG claim the trophy for a record 16th time.
Early Brilliance from Barcola Sets the Tone
PSG didn’t hang about in showing who was boss. Bradley Barcola scored twice in quick succession—in the 16th and 19th minutes, putting PSG in complete command.
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The first effort came courtesy of a clever through-ball from Desire Doue, which Barcola finished with composure.
Just minutes later, Doue received a pass from Marquinhos and squared the ball for Barcola to tap in his second.
Barcola’s brace took his season tally to 21 goals in all competitions, only Ousmane Dembele has more with 33.
Hakimi Seals It Before the Break
Right before the interval, PSG struck again. Achraf Hakimi arrived at the far post to head in a Barcola cross, rounding off a slick team move.
With a 3-0 lead, PSG strolled through the second half comfortably.
Coach Luis Enrique used the advantage to give other players game time.
Matfey Safonov started in goal ahead of Donnarumma, and several substitutions followed after the break.
Barcola nearly completed a hat-trick, but Reims keeper Yehvann Diouf pulled off a superb stop and also turned a Dembele effort onto the post.
Kvaratskhelia Misses Out
Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was a notable absentee, replaced by Desire Doue in the starting lineup.
A team insider said he went home early with a headache.
PSG’s Domestic Dominance Continues
This success is PSG’s second straight domestic treble under Luis Enrique, adding the French Cup to their Ligue 1 and Champions Trophy wins.
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It’s their eighth French Cup in ten years and 16th overall cementing their status as the competition’s most successful side.
Their nearest challengers, Marseille, have ten Cup wins, the last of which was back in 1989.
Reims’ Dreams Dashed
Reims appeared in their first French Cup final since 1977.
Although they held PSG to two draws in the league, their chances evaporated quickly on the big night.
Barcola’s early brace put them on the back foot, and now they must shift attention to a vital relegation playoff against Metz.
The first leg finished 1-1, and Reims will host the return clash next Thursday to decide if they remain in Ligue 1.
A Perfect Tune-Up for PSG’s European Ambitions
For PSG, this win is an ideal confidence boost ahead of their Champions League final against Inter Milan in Munich next weekend.
With form, momentum, and fitness on their side, Luis Enrique’s side look well placed to finally win the one trophy that has so far eluded them.
What did you make of PSG’s display? Do you think they can carry this form into the Champions League final against Inter Milan? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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