Paris Saint-Germain’s Ligue 1 campaign reached a significant milestone this week, with goalkeeper Matvey Safonov delivering a standout performance against RC Lens. The Russian shot-stopper made eight crucial saves to secure a vital 2-0 win, a result that mathematically clinched the club’s fifth consecutive league title and 14th overall. Safonov’s heroics came after he returned to the starting lineup following two matches in which Renato Marin had deputized between the posts.
Despite facing a determined Lens side, Safonov’s composure and reflexes kept his team ahead throughout the match. A post deflection saved an early goal, while his multiple stops frustrated Lens’s attacking threats. Up front, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ibrahim Mbaye each found the net, extending PSG’s unbeaten run and all but sealing their domestic dominance in French football.
Safonov credits team effort over individual brilliance
In a post-match interview, Safonov dismissed the idea of personal glory, emphasizing the collective success of the team. Speaking in fluent French, he reflected on the season’s highs, stating, “To me, the most important thing is that we won today. Everything else is just a bonus. I don’t like to single out one match as the best of the season—every player in the team has contributed to this incredible Ligue 1 campaign.”
Addressing his own performance, Safonov was modest, saying, “There’s no secret to my success. Today, my saves were lucky in the sense that Lens didn’t hit the target where I couldn’t reach. I think the opponent gave me a little help, and I made the most of it.”
The 30th matchday of the season looms large, but PSG’s focus remains unwavering. With a clear path to the title, Safonov and his teammates are determined to maintain their intensity until the final whistle on May 30th, ensuring their legacy in French football continues to grow.
