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Achraf Hakimi delivered a stunning hat-trick as a rotated Paris Saint-Germain side dismantled rock-bottom Le Havre with a commanding 5-1 victory in Ligue 1. This emphatic win allowed PSG to extend their lead at the top of the table to four points after nine matches.
While PSG enjoyed success, their closest challengers faltered. Rennes, trailing the champions, suffered a heavy 5-2 defeat against Nice, widening the gap. Meanwhile, Lille and Monaco have opportunities to close in on PSG, with Lille hosting Lens later on Friday and Monaco traveling to face Paris FC on Sunday.
Le Havre initially posed a threat, taking the lead against the run of play. Their forward surge unsettled the PSG defense, and striker Josh Maja capitalized, netting the opener in the 18th minute. However, PSG swiftly responded as Belgian winger Mika Godts latched onto a precise through-ball from Hakimi to equalize in the 26th minute.
Just two minutes later, Hakimi showcased his pace and skill by breaking past defenders and firing a low, precise shot inside the near post to give PSG the lead. The reigning European champions continued to dominate, stretching Le Havre’s defense and controlling the game.
Hakimi’s Masterclass Seals the Win
Hakimi’s influence grew as he struck again, this time from a powerful free-kick that curled beneath goalkeeper Arnaud Bodard, pushing the score to 3-1. Le Havre’s efforts to claw back into the match became increasingly desperate and exposed their defense.
Seizing on a rapid counterattack, PSG capitalized on Le Havre’s commitment to attack. The home side’s goalkeeper was caught far from his goal, with no defenders nearby to provide cover. This lapse allowed PSG to extend their lead further, underscoring their dominance throughout the contest.
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