PSG advances to Coupe de France Round of 32 with shootout win over Lens

PSG advanced to the Coupe de France Round of 32 with a 4-3 penalty shootout win over Lens after it ended 1-1 after 90 minutes.

Goalscorer: Nzola 66′; Ramos 70′

Despite having the vast majority of the ball throughout the match, the Ligue 1 champions and current leaders struggled to break down a resilient Lens defense in the opening hours and eventually fell behind.

M’bala Nzola didn’t know much about his opener as the ball ricocheted off him at close range and into the net in the 66th minute to the delight of the home crowd.

But their joy was short-lived. Luis Enrique responded to going behind by bringing on Gonçalo Ramos and it paid off in just four minutes.

The Portuguese forward took advantage of a mistake in the Lens defense to finish in fine style and level things.

Neither side could grab a second, forcing a penalty shootout where PSG held their nerve. All four scored, while keeper Matvey Safonov made himself a hero with two strong saves from Nzola and Andy Diouf.

FRANCOIS NASCIMBENI – AFP or licensors