Paris Saint-Germain kicked off their Ligue 1 title defense with a hard-fought 1-0 win against FC Nantes at Stade de la Beaujoire on Sunday. A long-range strike from Vitinha in the 67th minute proved decisive in a match dominated by the visitors, who showcased their attacking depth and defensive resilience despite a resolute Nantes performance.
PSG, under Luis Enrique, controlled over 70% of possession, deploying their trademark 4-3-3 with Vitinha, Fabián Ruiz, and Warren Zaïre-Emery dictating play in midfield. Wingers Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia stretched Nantes’ compact 4-5-1, but the hosts, led by new manager Luís Castro, held firm until Vitinha’s moment of brilliance. The Portuguese midfielder unleashed a curling 25-yard shot that beat goalkeeper Anthony Lopes, sparking celebrations among the traveling PSG fans.
Nantes struggled to create, failing to register a shot on target. Their defensive setup, anchored by Johann Lepenant and Hyun-seok Hong, frustrated PSG early, but a lack of attacking spark left them unable to capitalize on rare counterattacking opportunities. Mostafa Mohamed cut an isolated figure up top as PSG’s high press, led by Zaïre-Emery, stifled Nantes’ transitions.
Despite missing João Neves (suspended) and Senny Mayulu (doubtful), PSG’s squad depth shone, with goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier untested. The victory, coming days after their UEFA Super Cup triumph, signals PSG’s intent to dominate Ligue 1 once again. Nantes, meanwhile, will rue their lack of cutting edge but can take heart from their defensive resolve.