Paris Saint-Germain beats Monaco in Ligue 1 round 26 with extra-time winner from Kylian Mbappe

# Paris Saint-Germain Edge Past Monaco in Thrilling Ligue 1 Clash

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Monaco in Ligue 1 round 26 on Sunday, thanks to an extra-time winner from Kylian Mbappé. The match, played at the Stade Louis II, was a rollercoaster encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

The first half saw both teams create chances, but the scoring remained elusive. PSG’s star striker Mbappé had a goal ruled out for offside, while Monaco’s forward line, led by Kevin Vardy, also tested the opposition’s defense. The game went into halftime with the score still 0-0.

The second half started similarly, with both sides struggling to break each other down. PSG’s defense stood firm, denying Monaco any clear-cut opportunities, but the hosts eventually took the lead in the 66th minute. A clinical counter-attack saw Mbappé release Julian Draxl to slot home from close range, giving PSG a 1-0 lead.

Monaco responded swiftly, drawing level just nine minutes later. Vardy capitalized on a defensive error to finish neatly past PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas. The game was now tied at 1-1, and the intensity ramped up as both teams pushed for a winner.

Extra-time loomed large, and neither side wanted to settle for a point. In the 110th minute, Mbappé, who had been a constant threat throughout, rose to the occasion. A perfectly weighted cross from Draxl found the France international, who powered a stunning header past Navas to send the Stade de France into raptures.

PSG’s victory moves them to third place in the table, closing the gap on leaders Marseille. Mbappé, who now has 11 goals and six assists in the league this season, was praised by manager Mauricio Pochettino for his leadership and composure.

Monaco, meanwhile, slip to fourth, but the result highlights their inability to capitalize on chances against a well-organized PSG defense.

This win keeps PSG’s title hopes alive as they prepare for a crucial match against Rennes next weekend. Mbappé’s decisive goal in extra time not only sealed the three points but also showcased his importance to the team’s campaign.

For PSG, the fight for the Ligue 1 crown is far from over, but this performance will give them confidence heading into the final stretch of the season.