SAN FRANCISCO, November 28, (THEWILL) – French champions Paris Saint-Germain were in déjà vu mode as they dropped points from a winning position for the second week running when Bordeaux recovered a 2-2 draw at the Parc des Princes.
From two goals up, PSG collapsed to lose at Monaco in their previous Ligue 1 game. Again, on Saturday, they failed to make the most of their advantage after Neymar had turned the fixture in their favour.
Teenage centre back Timothee Pembele’s headed own goal from a Hatem Ben Arfa corner, needlessly conceded by defender Presnel Kimpembe, set the tone for the chaos that was to come PSG’s way.
Bordeaux keeper Benoit Costil saved well from Alessandro Florenzi following brilliant play by Brazilian midfielder Rafinha, but the goalie was outwitted by PSG playmaker Neymar from 12 yards when VAR gave them a penalty. The Brazil superstar took possession from Ben Arfa, feigned a trip from Bordeaux midfielder Otavio and successfully appealed for a VAR review.
PSG edged ahead just 65 seconds later with Neymar involved again. Costil clumsily spilled the Brazilian’s long-range effort and Italian centre forward Moise Kean rifled in the rebound.
However, Bordeaux could have been far behind if not for more convincing saves from Costil. He turned Kylian Mbappe’s finish over and produced an even better save moments later to help an effort from the same man onto the post. His opposite number, PSG keeper Sergio Rico got down to a Mehdi Zerkane attempt at the other end to keep the score at 2-1.
Mbappe got on the scoresheet early in the second period with an exquisite backheel but the goal was ruled out for offside.
PSG’s inability to extend their lead with wasted opportunities proved costly at the hour mark. French winger Yacine Adli, who was introduced as a substitute for Toma Basic only two minutes before, shaped a fine finish inside the right-hand post from Ben Arfa’s square ball.
Ben Arfa, who was having a remarkable game, looked determined to rock his former side further. He sent substitute Nicolas de Preville clear on goal but the forward’s shot was saved. Both sides had to settle instead for a point that represents a far better result for Bordeaux.
Ligue 1 second-placed Lille can now move level on points with the champions at the top of the table with victory at Saint-Etienne on Sunday, perhaps sensing an opportunity as PSG stumble from one blunder to the next.
For their next tie, PSG visit Old Trafford in midweek where they must improve on this performance to get a result. Bordeaux have eight days before their next league match against Brest.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
