Matvey Safonov's Heroics Propel PSG Past Lens In Coupe De France Penalty Shootout

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Paris Saint-Germain advanced to the next stage of the Coupe de France, overcoming Lens 4-3 in a penalty shootout. Matvey Safonov, stepping in for the injured Gianluigi Donnarumma, was instrumental by saving two penalties. His crucial saves against M'Bala Nzola and Andy Diouf ensured PSG's progression to the last 32.

The match saw PSG initially believe they had scored when Achraf Hakimi found the net in the 26th minute. However, this goal was disallowed due to an offside call. Lens then took the lead after an hour when M'Bala Nzola accidentally deflected Abdukodir Khusanov's shot past Safonov.

PSG quickly responded with Goncalo Ramos equalising just four minutes later. He capitalised on a defensive error by Kevin Danso, striking into the top corner. The game remained tied, leading to a penalty shootout to determine who would face Espaly in the next round.

In the penalty shootout, both teams initially converted their first three attempts. Lens faltered when Nzola's shot was saved by Safonov. Barcola then successfully scored his penalty for PSG. Safonov further cemented his heroics by stopping Andy Diouf's attempt, keeping PSG's hopes alive for a 16th Coupe de France title.

Performance Analysis and Statistics

Despite dominating Ligue 1 with a ten-point lead, PSG faced a tough challenge against Lens. Luis Enrique’s team recorded an expected goals (xG) total of 1.74 from their 18 shots compared to Lens’ xG of 1.05 from their 12 attempts. Goncalo Ramos played a pivotal role by scoring after coming on as a substitute in the 66th minute.

Ramos achieved a team-high xG of 0.71 and became only the second player in PSG history to score in three consecutive Coupe de France matches as a substitute. The first player to achieve this feat was Jacky Remond between October and November of 1970.

PSG's victory over Lens showcased their resilience and depth in squad talent, particularly through impactful performances from substitutes like Ramos and Safonov’s decisive saves during penalties. This win keeps them on track for another potential Coupe de France triumph as they prepare for their next challenge against Espaly.