Kylian Mbappe magic carries PSG past Brest as Parisians quest for Coupe de France glory continues

Posted Thursday, February 08, 2024 by Goal.com

Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring for Paris Saint-Germain as they ran out 3-1 winners over Brest in their Coupe de France last-16 clash.

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Brest, who claimed a draw at Parc des Princes earlier in the season in Ligue 1, came close to breaking the deadlock when, Martin Satriano hit the post with a fine curled effort after 30 minutes. But from there, PSG took control, Mbappe opened the scoring with a driven shot from a tight angle.

Danilo Pereira doubled their lead shortly after, and though Brest pulled one back in the second half through Steve Mounie following a well-worked counter-attack, their chances of a turnaround were ended by a silly red card for centre-back Lilian Brassier.

Goncalo Ramos then added a third in second-half stoppage-time to put the result beyond doubt and secure PSG's passage to the quarter-finals.

THE MVP
Who else but Mbappe? After showing few signs of improvement under Christophe Galtier, Mbappe has evolved under Luis Enrique, and he was vital in multiple facets of the game against Brest, not only taking the opening goal wonderfully, but also pressing diligently, and creating opportunities for others.

He may not be at PSG for too much longer, but if Mbappe performs like this every week, the Parisians will feel they will have a chance every time they step on the pitch.

THE BIG LOSER
What was Brassier thinking? The centre-back admittedly struggled with Mbappe all evening, but didn't do himself any favours by lunging into tackles for all of his 70 minutes on the pitch. His second yellow card was particularly idiotic, as Brassier dangerously stamped on Mbappe's calf as he ran in on goal.

WHAT COMES NEXT?
PSG's Ligue 1 campaign continues on Saturday as they host Lille, before turning their attention to the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Real Sociedad.