France’s soccer champions Paris St. Germain have taken another big step towards defending their title.
With a 5-0 (2-0) thrashing of AC Ajaccio, who had already been relegated, the star ensemble around the returning world footballer Lionel Messi maintained their lead over pursuers RC Lens. With three games to go, the cushion is six points.
Fabian Ruiz (22nd) and former Dortmund player Achraf Hakimi (33rd) gave the champions the lead in their home Prinzenpark. A brace from superstar Kylian Mbappe (47th/54th) made the decision early on, Mohamed Youssouf (73rd) also hit his own net. Messi, who was recently suspended for an unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia, played through but failed to score.
Fifteen minutes before the end, Hakimi caused a stir again. In a pack formation, the Moroccan punched towards the head of Ajaccio’s Thomas Mangani after the latter had earlier punched at Hakimi himself. Both saw the red card.