Article Summary
Lionel Messi, after winning the World Cup with Argentina, celebrated his return to Paris Saint-Germain with a goal in his first game back. The 35-year-old forward paid tribute to the legendary Pelé before the match, during which PSG won 2-0 against Angers. Kylian Mbappé, another World Cup finalist, was rested for this match, while youngster Hugo Ekitiké impressed with a goal. Messi, partnering with Neymar Jr., doubled the lead for PSG, which was crucial after losing its first league match this season.
What This Means for You
- Be prepared for a strong performance from PSG, with key players like Messi, Neymar Jr., and Mbappé returning from the World Cup.
- Young talents like Hugo Ekitiké are likely to get more opportunities and showcase their skills as the season progresses.
- PSG remains the favorite to win the league, with its strong attacking lineup and strategic substitutions throughout the match.
- As fans, you can expect exciting and competitive matches in the French Ligue 1 throughout the rest of the season.
Original Post
CNN
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Lionel Messi celebrated his return to Paris Saint-Germain with a goal in his first game back since lifting the World Cup.
The 35-year-old only returned to training in the new year after taking some time off to celebrate and recuperate after Qatar 2022, where he finally won the trophy that had always eluded him in one of the greatest finals ever.
But the forward didn’t look to be suffering any hangover as he returned to action with a goal from close range in PSG’s 2-0 win against Angers on Wednesday.
Messi also paid tribute to Pelé before the match, joining his teammates in wearing a t-shirt with the Brazilian’s face on it during the warmup.
PSG sits comfortably top of the league despite Christophe Galtier having to switch up his team as he eases players back in after the World Cup.
Kylian Mbappé, a beaten finalist in Qatar, was rested for Wednesday’s match, allowing the likes of youngster Hugo Ekitiké to get some game time.
The 20-year-old forward has impressed when given the chance this season and opened the scoring with a sweeping finish in the first half.
Messi, who dovetailed the attack alongside Neymar Jr., then doubled the lead in the 72nd minute after a well timed run and right foot finish.
The linesman had initially flagged for offside, but the Virtual Assistant Referee (VAR) overruled the call and the goal was given.
The win on Messi’s return is some welcome good news for PSG, who lost in the league for the first time this season last week, 3-1 away to Lens.
Key Terms
- Paris Saint-Germain
- Lionel Messi
- Christophe Galtier
- World Cup
- Kylian Mbappé
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