PSG extend lead at the top with 4-1 win at Rennes

Paris Saint-Germain continued their march towards the Ligue 1 title with a 4-1 away victory over Stade Rennes on Saturday, despite a spirited second-half performance from the home side. Substitute Ousmane Dembele scored twice in added time to secure PSG’s sixth consecutive league win.

The victory extends PSG’s unbeaten run in the league this season and moves them to 65 points, 16 points clear of second-placed Olympique de Marseille, who play Lens later on Saturday. Rennes remain in 11th place with 29 points.

PSG manager Luis Enrique made eight changes to the team that lost 1-0 to Liverpool in the Champions League last-16 first leg midweek, but the visitors dominated the early stages. Despite controlling possession, PSG struggled to create clear chances until the 27th minute.

Bradley Barcola opened the scoring, beating the offside trap after a quick free-kick and a pass from Desire Doue, and slotting his shot past Rennes goalkeeper Brice Samba. Prior to that Rennes keeper, Brice Samba, saved Goncalo Ramos.

Rennes responded, with Ludovic Blas shooting just wide and Mohamed Meite hitting the crossbar with a header.

PSG doubled their lead five minutes into the second half. Barcola turned provider, crossing from the left for Goncalo Ramos to score from close range.

Rennes, however, quickly reduced the deficit. Just three minutes later, Jeremy Jacquet flicked on a corner, and Lilian Brassier headed home at the back post. The goal injected fresh impetus into the home side.

Luis Enrique reacted by introducing key players Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembele, Vitinha, and Nuno Mendes from the bench. Despite the changes, Rennes continued to threaten, and Blas had a good chance to equalize, but shot straight at the goalkeeper.

PSG ultimately sealed the victory in added time. Dembele tapped in a pass from Achraf Hakimi for his first, and then added his second, and his 20th league goal of the season, with a strike from the edge of the area. The late goals added a gloss to the scoreline that perhaps flattered PSG’s overall performance, particularly given Rennes’ second-half resurgence.