Paris Saint-Germain escaped their first Ligue 1 defeat of the season after completing a dramatic comeback to draw 2-2 away to Lille on Friday, despite entering stoppage time two goals behind.
The match was played at the Decathlon Arena – Stade Pierre-Mauroy, where Lille appeared to be cruising towards a memorable victory before Vitinha and Marquinhos produced a stunning late response.
Hákon Arnar Haraldsson opened the scoring for the hosts in the 21st minute before Dilane Bakwa doubled Lille’s advantage in the 84th. Vitinha pulled one back in the first minute of stoppage time, while Marquinhos snatched the equaliser with virtually the final action of the match.
PSG’s Disastrous Start to Ligue 1
Despite the thrilling comeback, the draw cannot disguise an extremely poor start from the defending champions, who have collected only two points from their opening two matches after falling 2-0 behind on both occasions.
PSG had also drawn 2-2 with Rennes in their opening fixture at Roazhon Park. Luis Enrique’s side conceded twice in the first half before substitute Ferran Torres rescued a point with goals in the 71st and 82nd minutes.
The two performances have exposed clear defensive and mental issues. PSG have conceded four goals in 180 minutes and have not led at any stage, despite possessing one of the strongest squads in European football.
What Is Happening Between Enrique and Dembélé?
The disappointing start has coincided with French media reports of tension inside the dressing room, particularly after Ousmane Dembélé was substituted at half-time against Rennes. L’Équipe subsequently reported that the player and Luis Enrique held a heated discussion after the match.
Dembélé missed the Lille encounter after being granted rest until Monday in a decision agreed upon by the coach and the club’s sporting management. Enrique denied having a dispute with the French forward, explaining that the decision was related to his physical condition and the effort he had made during the break. However, the Spanish coach also stressed that “there is no credit in football” and every player must prove each day that they deserve to play.
Paris Saint-Germain will seek their first league victory when they host Monaco at the Parc des Princes on Friday, September 4, at 9:05 pm French time, in an increasingly important test following two successive draws and mounting pressure on Enrique and his players.
