Messi Magic Stuns PSG as Neymar Misses OutMessi Magic Stuns PSG as Neymar Misses Out Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Lille on Sunday in a pulsating encounter at the Parc des Princes. However, the match was overshadowed by the absence of star forward Neymar, who missed out due to a thigh injury. In Neymar’s absence, the onus was on Lionel Messi to deliver, and he duly obliged with a scintillating performance. The Argentine maestro opened the scoring with a trademark free-kick in the 28th minute, curling the ball over the Lille wall and into the top corner. Messi’s magic continued in the second half when he set up Leandro Paredes for the winning goal. The Croatian midfielder tapped home from close range after a delightful cross from Messi on the right flank. Despite the victory, PSG manager Mauricio Pochettino expressed disappointment over Neymar’s injury. “It’s a significant blow for us to lose Neymar,” he said. “He’s a key player, and we’ll miss his creativity and goal threat.” Lille fought valiantly throughout the match, and they pulled a goal back through Burak Yılmaz in the 88th minute. However, it was a mere consolation as PSG held on to secure all three points. The victory puts PSG top of the Ligue 1 standings with 11 points from five games. It also gives Messi a timely boost ahead of PSG’s Champions League opener against Club Brugge on Tuesday. Neymar’s injury is a concern for PSG, but with Messi in scintillating form, the French champions will remain confident in their ability to challenge for both domestic and European glory.
