PSG Triumphs in Coupe de France Final
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured their 15th Coupe de France title by defeating Lyon 2-1 in Lille on Saturday. This triumph adds to previous wins in 1982, 1983, 1993, 1995, 1998, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, and 2021. Throughout the match, Ousmane Dembélé and Fabian Ruiz were key players, with Dembélé scoring the first goal and Ruiz netting another in the first half. Lyon's Jake O'Brien managed to rekindle hope with a goal after the break, but it was not enough to surpass the determined Parisian squad.
PSG's Full Success in Domestic Competitions
This victory completes a domestic treble for PSG, having already secured Ligue 1 and the Champions Trophy. Although Kylian Mbappé, in what might be his final game with PSG, showed desire and energy, it was Ousmane Dembélé who shone brightest. Besides scoring, Dembélé also contributed as a decisive passer and was impeccable in his defensive duties. Fabian Ruiz delivered a strong performance in the first half, while Warren Zaire-Emery, who had been tired for weeks, regained his form.
Despite a torrid run against PSG, Lyon exhibited significant tactical adaptability throughout the season. Coaches Laurent Blanc and Pierre Sage experimented with different formations, including a 4-2-3-1, but decided on a 4-1-4-1 for the Coupe de France final. Their defense, marshaled by Nemanja Matic in a sentinel role, still fell short against PSG’s relentless assault.
Question marks surrounded Lyon's lineup regarding their defensive and midfield positions. Eventually, Lucas Perri was chosen as the goalkeeper over Anthony Lopes, but other roster spots saw intense competition. Clinton Mata and Ainsley Maitland-Niles battled for the right-back spot, while Corentin Tolisso took precedence over Orel Mangala in midfield. The attacking role showcased Ernest Nuamah instead of Rayan Cherki owing to his diligent runs, which fit Pierre Sage's strategy.
- Lyon's strategy heading into the Coupe de France final evolved significantly over the season. The choice of Lucas Perri over Anthony Lopes is a noteworthy tactical decision by coach Pierre Sage, indicating a focus on fresh talent and readiness.
- Dissecting the tactical framework, Sage’s 4-1-4-1 setup mirrored their strengths but proved insufficient against PSG’s robust lineup. Even Mattia's experimentation with the right-back position demonstrated the strategic thought behind every player placement, although it ultimately could not contain PSG's offensive power.
- Pierre Sage's remarks concerning Kylian Mbappé — considered one of the best players in the world by Lyon's sports director David Friio — showed a well-grounded approach of focusing on their game regardless of the formidable opponent.
- Lyon's deployment of Nemanja Matic as a sentinel provided a more balanced midfield, although this formation was not enough to counteract PSG's superior attacking prowess. The substitutions and squad rotations reflected a tactical balance that blended experience with youth, showcasing Lyon's broader strategy and preparedness.
