On Saturday evening, Paris Saint-Germain secured a resounding 5-0 victory against Rennes in Matchday 15 of the 2025-2026 Ligue 1 season at the Parc des Princes. Here are the highlights and lowlights of this win.
Highlights –
Warren Zaïre-Emery continues to impress.
The 19-year-old midfielder faced significant criticism during a more challenging period in his career, following a serious ankle injury. However, he demonstrated that he had certainly not lost his talent. The academy graduate, as he himself admitted, lacked confidence. It’s clear he’s regained it, along with his excellent physical condition. This allows him to showcase his abilities much more effectively and shine again tonight as Achraf Hakimi’s backup. It’s a joy to see him return to this level.
Matvey Safonov, a successful debut.
The 26-year-old goalkeeper had to wait for Lucas Chevalier’s (24) injury to get his chance this season, and he made the most of it. While not playing an exceptional match, the Russian made several saves, including a fine one at 0-0, and handled most of his clearances. It’s encouraging to see he was ready. Will he have the opportunity to continue his form on Wednesday in Bilbao in the Champions League?
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Bradley Barcola are back in form.
Criticized for their recent mediocre performances, the 24- and 23-year-old forwards responded very well tonight. Even if Barcola still lacked a bit of clinical finishing against Kvaratskhelia’s brace, both were creative and energetic in their handling. That’s already a very positive sign.
Gonçalo Ramos and Ibrahim Mbaye: goals that make a difference.
In this attacking showcase, the 24-year-old striker and the 17-year-old forward both contributed with some excellent strikes. Each scored a goal, which can provide some relief. Ramos hadn’t scored in about a month and seemed to be struggling. Mbaye displayed impressive attacking prowess but lacked a clinical edge. Nothing boosts confidence like goals, so let’s hope they can keep the momentum going.
Flops –
Nothing?
We looked, but we found nothing. There were missed opportunities, of course. But to call it a poor performance? Perhaps that’s being too lenient, but what we saw above all was a great team effort in an interesting match to watch.
