Dembele’s Late Heroics Secure PSG Victory in Trophee des Champions

Ousmane Dembélé’s stoppage-time strike clinched a dramatic 1-0 victory for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) over AS Monaco in the Trophee des Champions on Sunday. The match, held at Doha’s Stadium 974, saw PSG claim the French Super Cup for the 11th time in 12 seasons.

Originally scheduled to take place in Beijing as the traditional curtain-raiser to the French football season, the match was relocated to Qatar after Chinese authorities canceled the event. Qatar, whose Qatar Sports Investments owns PSG, stepped in to host the game at the iconic 2022 World Cup venue, attracting a crowd of 39,682 fans.

PSG, the reigning French champions, dominated much of the match but faced frustrations in front of goal. Monaco’s goalkeeper Philipp Koehn delivered an inspired performance, making crucial saves to keep the principality side in contention.

Early in the game, PSG threatened to break through as Desire Doue’s strike off a misplaced pass rattled the crossbar in the eighth minute. Vitinha’s shot narrowly missed the target, and a thunderous effort from Lee Kang-in was expertly tipped over by Koehn.

Monaco had their chances too, with Gianluigi Donnarumma denying efforts from Maghnes Akliouche and Eliesse Ben Seghir. Vanderson’s strike from a tight angle also struck the post, keeping the game balanced heading into the final moments.

Just as the match seemed destined for penalties, substitute Fabian Ruiz delivered a decisive assist in the 92nd minute. Sprinting down the left flank, Ruiz sent a low cross into the penalty area, where Dembélé converted at the far post, securing PSG’s victory.

The win adds another trophy to PSG’s impressive collection and marks a promising start to their quest for another treble this season. PSG’s domestic dominance remains unchallenged, having ended 2024 with a commanding 10-point lead at the top of Ligue 1.

Beyond the football action, the event highlighted Qatar’s growing reputation as a hub for international sports. Since hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the nation has organized a series of major events, including the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.

Looking ahead, Qatar is set to host the FIFA U-17 World Cups from 2025 to 2029, with the inaugural tournament scheduled for November this year. The country will also stage the FIFA Arab Cup in 2025, 2029, and 2033, further cementing its status as a global sports destination.

The Trophee des Champions was organized by the Local Organising Committee for Football Events and supported by Visit Qatar, showcasing the nation’s commitment to promoting sports and tourism.