PSG thrash Saint-Etienne 6-1 as Mauro Icardi scores a hat-trick

Marco Verrati recently claimed that Paris Saint Germain (PSG) have four of the top ten players in the world. Now, this might be an overstatement, though what certainly isn’t an overstatement is the fact that they are the best team in France. And doesn’t come as a surprise when you have Kylian Mbappe and Neymar in your team. And PSG made sure they displayed their dominance again as they faced Saint-Etienne. Thomas Tuchel and his men were at their destructive best as they thrashed Saint-Etienne 6-1.

PSG in Scintillating Form

It was never going to be an easy match for Claude Puel and his men as they faced the French Champions at their home, Parc des Princes. But they wouldn’t have predicted to be humiliated in the way that they were. Thomas Tuchel fielded a stronger team with Neymar, Kylian Mbappe, Mauro Icardi and Angel Di Maria, all starting. While Claude Puel gave a debut to youngster Maxence Rivera while also starting former PSG man, Yohan Cabaye.

The Iconic Trio dominates the match

The scoring was opened in the second minute itself with Mauro Icardi scoring with a first-time finish. Thomas Meunier claimed the assist for the goal. To make the matter worse for the Saint-Etienne, centre-back Wesley Fofana was sent off for a late challenge on Angel Di Maria. PSG continue to smash Puel’s men as all of the iconic trio of PSG, Neymar, Icardi, and Mbappe got on the score sheet. The Inter Milan loanee scored a hat-trick while also registering an assist. While Neymar and Mbappe scored a brace each with the World Cup winner also providing two assists. Yohan Cabaye scored a consolation goal against his former team in the 71st minute. 

PSG are set to face AS Monaco next up as they look to continue their red hot form in the new year. Tuchel’s men have played two games in 2020 and have scored a combined total of 12 goals in them.

What the Managers said:

Thomas Tuchel, PSG Manager

“I am convinced that Icardi and Mbappe love to play together,

“We talk about the four attackers but we are a team with 11 players. Neymar, for example, helps Juan Bernat. That’s the sort of spirit which we need to be dangerous. We have the best players but we also have the best team.”

Claude Puel, Saint-Etienne Manager

“The same scenario is repeated. Against this team, it is the second time that we quickly concede the opening of the score, then an expulsion in the first period which ends the match. It’s a shame. But there is lots of lessons for all players and our ability to play matches of this level. We are still learning.”