Mbappe brace sees PSG put one hand on league title after Auxerre win
Lens’ win at Lorient earlier on Sunday ensured that PSG couldn’t lift the trophy tonight, but a vastly superior goal differential meant that three points here would effectively guarantee them the accolade of becoming France’s all-time record champions.
And PSG wasted little time in getting the job done, as an unstoppable Kylian Mbappe fired his side two in front with less than 10 minutes on the clock.
For his first strike, the four-time Ligue 1 top gun ruthlessly carved apart the home defence with a twisting run, eventually slotting into the top corner with nonchalant ease.
The jaws of most in attendance at Stade de l'Abbe-Deschamps were ajar at what they had just seen, and Mbappe made sure his full repertoire was on display by whipping in a devastating second from the edge of the area.
Auxerre fans were naturally fearing the worst already, but their side courageously pushed forward in an effort to salvage pride against an immovable object.
Gauthier Hein and Nuno Da Costa both tested Gianluigi Donnarumma before the break, while Rayan Raveloson thundered against the bar from distance, with the Italian flapping at thin air.
Auxerre’s renewed efforts continued into the second half, and the faith of the home fans was rewarded, as Lassine Sinayoko latched onto Da Costa’s flick to hit one back.
The goal worked wonders for those on the pitch, and the newly-inspired Auxerre produced a fantastic second-half performance. Hein turned brilliantly to force a reflex save by Donnarumma, but the home side ultimately couldn’t take advantage of PSG’s defensive deficiencies and earn an unlikely point.
The champions-elect will have to wait until at least next weekend to lift their eighth French title in a decade, but they will know that this result means that the job is almost certainly complete – and finally will be with just one further point.
Meanwhile, Auxerre remain just a point above Nantes, who occupy the last unconfirmed berth in this season’s expanded relegation zone. Nonetheless, they will gain encouragement from what was a strong performance against one of Europe’s deadliest outfits.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Kylian Mbappe (Paris Saint-Germain)
