French Cup Final Awaits as PSG Power Past Dunkerque
Paris Saint-Germain staged a remarkable comeback, overcoming a two-goal deficit to defeat second-tier Dunkerque 4-2 and secure their place in the French Cup final.
Initially, it seemed like a mismatch between the unbeaten Ligue 1 leaders, PSG, and Dunkerque, who sit fifth in Ligue 2. However, PSG’s fourth goal only came deep into added time during a counterattack, as Dunkerque pushed hard for an equalizer.
Dunkerque gained confidence from their previous victories over top-tier teams, including Auxerre, Lille, and Brest, and started strong in the match on Tuesday. They opened the scoring in the seventh minute with a free kick from the left that was flicked on to the back post, where centre-back Vincent Sasso was left unmarked to score.
Dunkerque extended their lead after 27 minutes in a manner that was disappointing for PSG goalkeeper Matvei Safonov and his defense. A routine long goal kick from Dunkerque’s goalkeeper was headed on by Gaetan Courtet, who won the aerial duel against PSG captain Marquinhos. Saudi Arabian midfielder Muhanad Al-Saad then latched onto the ball and finished confidently.
Just before halftime, PSG’s top scorer Ousmane Dembélé cut the deficit to 2-1. The equalizer soon followed when Marquinhos headed in Dembélé’s cross after a controversial corner. Television replays revealed that the ball had hit Marquinhos’ back before going out, indicating it should not have been a corner kick at all. Dunkerque captain Opa Sangante expressed frustration, stating, “It was never a corner. It was the turning point of the match.
Desire Doue’s deflected strike brought the score to 3-2, and Dembélé sprinted through the defense to complete the scoring with his 32nd goal of the season.
PSG’s opponent in the final on May 24 will be the winner of Wednesday’s semi-final match between fourth-tier Cannes and top-flight Reims. Reims won the trophy twice during their heyday in the 1950s and last reached the final in 1977, while Cannes claimed their only title in 1932. The southern club is also known for launching the careers of French legends Zinedine Zidane and Patrick Vieira.
PSG is poised to replicate their success from last season and can clinch a record-extending 13th Ligue 1 title on Saturday.
Thank you for being a part of FairGoals.com! We’re thrilled to have you join us on this journey. To stay updated on the latest news, exclusive content, and everything related to football, be sure to sign up today. Don’t forget to follow us on social media to keep the football spirit alive—every goal deserves to be celebrated! Join our community and let’s share our love for the beautiful game!
