On Saturday evening, Paris Saint-Germain defeated Metz 3-2 in Matchday 16 of the 2025-2026 Ligue 1 season at the Stade Saint-Symphorien. Here are the highs and lows of this victory.
Highs –
Decisive Youth Players
In a season where pundits, media, and some fans like to fuel the debate surrounding PSG’s “need” to recruit, it’s interesting to see the club have a squad where young players have a real impact. Academy graduates Ibrahim Mbaye (17-year-old forward) and Quentin Ndjantou (18-year-old midfielder/forward) were both decisive (two assists for the former, a goal for the latter). This was important for the victory, as well as for their subsequent confidence.
Désiré Doué too
The 20-year-old midfielder/forward had already returned to Bilbao on Wednesday, without managing to break the deadlock. This Saturday evening, he confirmed that he is fit and ready to help the team. There were some good defensive recoveries, chances created, and a goal.
Collective energy (almost).
PSG started very strongly, with a lot of movement in attack and some nice pressing when they lost possession. We can regret the lapse in concentration at 0-2, but we shouldn’t forget this fine collective performance, with a second half that was also very interesting. Especially since there was a good pace to the game, which is a welcome change.
Flops –
The lapse in concentration on the goal conceded.
As mentioned earlier, PSG seemed a bit “stalled” after going down 0-2. Perhaps with the feeling that the hardest part was over and that they just needed to play it safe from then on. What the fans might have in mind, but football is too demanding for that to be reflected on the pitch. Metz took advantage of this, and there were some stressful situations during the second half.
Inefficiency.
Scoring three goals is good. But PSG could have scored more with a bit more precision in their decision-making and execution. These missed opportunities allowed Metz to keep their hopes alive. They will need to find the key to “killing” matches.
