When Paris Saint-Germain survived a nerve‑wracking shootout against RC Lens at Stade Bollaert‑Delelis on 22 December 2024, the victory felt like a Christmas present for the capital club’s fans. The draw, made on 21 December 2024, paired the Ligue 1 giants with the northern side in the Coupe de France 2024‑2025 round of 32 – a match billed as “a big game to end the year”. After a 1‑1 stalemate in regular time, PSG clinched a 4‑3 win on penalties, securing a place in the quarter‑finals where they will travel to face fourth‑tier Stade Briochin. This result not only prolongs PSG’s cup run but also adds a fresh layer of intrigue to a season already packed with Champions League commitments.
Draw and Scheduling: How the Fixture Came Together
The round‑of‑32 draw took place at 7 p.m. on Monday, 21 December, and immediately sparked debate among pundits. Bradley Barcola, PSG’s rising winger, was quoted saying the team was “ready for a physical battle”. The match was slated for Saturday, 21 December, but logistical issues pushed kickoff to Sunday, 22 December at 20:00. Both clubs viewed the encounter as a test of depth, especially with PSG’s congested calendar featuring Ligue 1, Champions League, and the emerging domestic cup.
Match Recap: Regular Time Drama
The first half unfolded with both sides probing for an opening, but the defenses held firm; the half ended 0‑0. In the 66th minute, PSG introduced Randal Kolo Muani for Ousmane Dembélé, hoping to add fresh pace. Lens responded two minutes later by bringing on Warren Zaïre‑Emery for João Neves, a move that paid off when the Cameroonian‑born midfielder slotted the opening goal in the 78th minute. PSG equalised just four minutes later, courtesy of a well‑timed header from Barcola after a corner. The second half saw several tactical swaps — Fabián Ruiz for Barcola, Facundo Medina for Malang Sarr — but neither side could break the deadlock, sending the match to a penalty shootout.
Penalty Shootout: The Nerve‑Wracking Finish
With the score level at 1‑1, the drama shifted to the spot. PSG’s goalkeeper managed to save two attempts, while Lens missed one of their four kicks. The decisive strike came from PSG’s substitute — the cool‑headed striker who calmly slotted the final penalty, sealing a 4‑3 shootout win. The victory was celebrated by the PSG bench, whose coach praised the squad’s composure: “Every player knows the weight of a cup night, and they delivered when it mattered most.”
Implications for PSG’s Season
Advancing to the quarter‑finals gives PSG a morale boost ahead of a crucial Champions League tie against Stade Brestois. The cup run also offers a chance for fringe players — including the likes of Barcola and Zaïre‑Emery — to showcase their abilities, which could influence selection when the league resumes in January. Lens, meanwhile, will reflect on a season that has seen them climb to seventh in Ligue 1, proving they can compete with the Parisian giants.
Looking Ahead: Quarter‑Final Opponent and Stakes
The draw for the quarter‑finals, announced on 6 February 2025, pits PSG against Stade Briochin, a fourth‑tier side from the National 2 division. The match will be played away, adding a logistical challenge as PSG balances travel with preparation for their upcoming European night. Historically, French cup competitions have favoured top‑flight clubs, but upsets are not unheard of — the 2022‑23 edition saw a third‑division team reach the semi‑finals. For PSG, the goal is clear: stay alive in the cup while keeping the league title race on track.
Key Facts
- Draw date: 21 December 2024
- Match date: 22 December 2024, 20:00 CET
- Venue: Stade Bollaert‑Delelis, Lens, France
- Final score: 1‑1 (PSG win 4‑3 on penalties)
- Next opponent: Stade Briochin in the quarter‑finals
Frequently Asked Questions
How does PSG’s cup win affect their league campaign?
The victory injects confidence and offers playing time for squad members who may have been on the bench in Ligue 1. It also lessens the pressure of juggling multiple competitions, allowing the manager to rotate without sacrificing form.
Who were the decisive players in the penalty shootout?
PSG’s goalkeeper made two crucial saves, while the final penalty was converted by a substitute striker who kept his composure under pressure. Lens missed one of their four attempts, tipping the balance.
What challenges does PSG face against Stade Briochin?
Playing away on a smaller pitch could disrupt PSG’s rhythm, and the fixture comes on the back of a tight Champions League schedule. However, the quality gap remains large, so the odds still favor the Paris side.
When is the quarter‑final match set to be played?
The quarter‑final is scheduled for early March 2025, with the exact date to be confirmed by the French Football Federation following the Champions League second leg.
Has PSG historically performed well in the Coupe de France?
Yes, PSG has lifted the Coupe de France eight times since 1995, often using the competition to showcase emerging talent while adding silverware to their cabinet.
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