Paris Saint-Germain secured a 2-0 victory over Olympique Lyonnais this Sunday at the Parc des Princes, as part of the 8th matchday of the 2026-2027 Ligue 1 season. Following the match, Lyon defender Moussa Niakhaté (30) spoke to the press in the mixed zone.
Niakhaté: “They have great qualities, but also a few flaws.”
How did you prepare for this match? Did you identify any weaknesses in the PSG side?
First and foremost, they possess a great deal of quality—that’s what we focused on. We knew we had to be brave and courageous, especially defensively, as it required more running than usual. In possession, we also aimed to play the ball out from the back with short passes, and we managed to do that. They have great qualities, but also a few flaws. One of their key traits is that they defend in one-on-one situations—but that can also be a weakness.
Niakhaté: “There are regrets.”
A frustrating outcome?
Yes, because we ran a lot and put in a huge amount of effort. We really wanted to come away from the Parc des Princes with something. They had their chances, and so did we—so, naturally, there are regrets. It’s always disappointing when you make so many sacrifices, only for them to score in the end.
Did the team struggle physically?
I’m not sure. We certainly did a lot of running, which demands a great deal of energy—it’s hard to keep that up for the full 90 minutes. But the first goal didn’t come down to a lack of running; it was a result of losing possession. That’s also a testament to the quality of the individual player.
Niakhaté: “We weren’t far off from achieving something positive.”
What was it that threw you off balance? Their style of play is similar; they possess some very strong qualities. But we prepared for this match very well, just as we did last year. We had the right strategy—with a few adjustments—and they struggled to find solutions, while we managed to create some chances. Still, they scored, because they are a fine side.
Where did you struggle the most—down the middle or out on the flanks?
If I had to choose, I’d say the flanks. But overall, we remained consistent. We were also able to cause them problems when playing the ball out from the back. They are very strong, though, and their link-up play is excellent. We weren’t far off achieving a good result. Last year, things went our way; we did some good things out there.
Niakhaté: “We were very courageous and showed great mental strength.”
What were those “good things”?
Our mindset. Football is a game that demands courage. We were very brave, showed great mental fortitude, and at times, we were excellent at playing the ball out. We posed a threat, and there were some great saves made against us. We had both the mental and physical endurance.
Niakhaté: “They have a very good team.”
Is it frustrating to play without your injured players and the fans?
That’s football. Last year, when we won, we also had players missing. Both teams have had to deal with absences.
Did you anticipate that second wave of pressure?
Unlike in other matches, where their regular starters might come off the bench, this time they were in the starting lineup. But they really do have a very good team. Godts and Mayulu both scored for the first time this season. They have a very strong squad. The result went their way, and it’s well-deserved.
