Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) avoided a big upset as they came from two goals down to defeat second-division Dunkerque 4-2 and secure a spot in the French Cup final on Tuesday.
Despite being the Ligue 1 leaders, Paris Saint-Germain struggled against a determined Dunkerque team, which had already eliminated Auxerre, Lille, and Brest in previous rounds. The underdogs led 2-0 after 27 minutes, but PSG fought back to seal the win.
Dunkerque Takes Early Lead
Dunkerque scored first in the 7th minute when Vincent Sasso found the net after a flicked-on free kick. The second goal came in the 27th minute, as Muhanad Al-Saad finished confidently after a header from Gaëtan Courtet.
PSG’s Comeback Begins
PSG’s top scorer this season, Ousmane Dembele, pulled one back just before halftime.
Soon after, Marquinhos equalized with a header from a Dembele cross. However, replays suggested the ball had gone out of play before the corner was given.
Dunkerque captain Opa Sangante called it the “turning point of the match.”
PSG Secures the Win
In the second half, Desire Doue’s deflected strike made it 3-2, and Dembele sealed the victory in stoppage time with his 32nd goal of the season.
French Cup Final Awaits
The Parisians will face the winner of Cannes vs. Reims, who play their semifinal on Wednesday. The final is set for May 24.
Meanwhile, PSG is also on track to win the Ligue 1 title this Saturday, which would be a record-extending 13th league championship.
