Paris Saint-Germain are one step closer to advancing to the last 16 of the Champions League after a dominating 3-0 win over Brest in the first leg of their knockout phase playoff. The match, which was only the second time two French sides have faced each other in the Champions League, saw Ousmane Dembele shine with two goals, putting PSG in a commanding position ahead of the second leg.
Dembele, who has been in impressive form this season, struck twice to leave Brest reeling. His first goal came early in the match, setting the tone for what would be a clinical performance by PSG. Despite Brest having their chances, PSG's defense held strong, and they were able to capitalize on their opportunities to extend their lead.
The win marks a significant step forward for PSG, who are looking to make a deep run in the Champions League. With Dembele leading the charge, they will be confident of their ability to overcome any opponent. The French side will now turn their attention to the second leg, where they will look to finish the job and secure their place in the last 16.
Brest, on the other hand, will need to regroup and reassess their strategy if they are to have any hope of overturning the deficit. The task ahead of them is daunting, but they will take heart from the fact that they were able to create chances against a strong PSG side. However, they will need to be more clinical in front of goal if they are to have any chance of progression.
The match was a historic one, marking only the second time two French sides have faced each other in the Champions League. The occasion was not lost on the players, who put on a show for the fans. In the end, it was PSG's quality that shone through, and they will be pleased with the result.
With the first leg out of the way, attention will now turn to the second leg, where PSG will look to finish the job and secure their place in the last 16. Dembele and his teammates will be confident of their ability to get the job done, and they will be eager to take to the pitch and prove themselves once again. For Brest, it will be a case of now or never, and they will need to put in a performance of a lifetime if they are to have any chance of turning the tie around.