Jobaaj Stories
PSG Survives Dunkerque Scare, Advances to French Cup Final
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) endured a nail-biting French Cup semi-final against second-tier Dunkerque, ultimately emerging victorious with a thrilling 4-2 comeback. The match, played on April 1st, 2025, showcased both the unpredictable nature of cup football and PSG's resilience in the face of adversity.
Dunkerque's Stunning Start
Against all odds, Dunkerque, fifth in Ligue 2, took a commanding 2-0 lead within the first 27 minutes. Vincent Sasso opened the scoring in the 7th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from PSG. Then, a routine long kick from the PSG goalkeeper was disastrously headed on, allowing Muhannad Al-Saad to finish confidently. This early advantage left PSG scrambling and the underdogs celebrating a dream start.
PSG's Comeback Kings
However, PSG's star power eventually shone through. Ousmane Dembélé pulled one back just before halftime with a powerful strike, igniting their comeback. Three minutes into the second half, Marquinhos leveled the score with a header, although a controversial corner decision fueled the tension. Désiré Doué then put PSG ahead before Dembélé sealed the victory with his second goal deep into stoppage time, completing a brace and taking his season tally to 32 goals.
A Controversial Moment
The match wasn't without controversy. Dunkerque captain Opa Sangante vehemently protested a corner decision that led to Marquinhos' equalizer, highlighting the high stakes and emotional intensity of the game. He stated, "The frustrating thing is that it was never a corner. It was the turning point of the match."
Looking Ahead
PSG's hard-fought victory sends them to the French Cup final on May 24th, where they'll face the winner of the Reims vs. Cannes match. This win also keeps their hopes alive for a domestic double, as they are on the verge of securing their fourth consecutive Ligue 1 title. Their Champions League quarter-final against Aston Villa also looms large, ensuring a thrilling end to the season for the Parisian giants. While Dunkerque's cup run ended, their remarkable performance against the Ligue 1 champions will be remembered for years to come.
