Mbappe silences critics as PSG beat Nantes 2-0

Paris Saint-Germain continued their dominance of Ligue 1 late on Saturday, with a 2-0 away victory over struggling Nantes. Despite speculation around star striker Kylian Mbappe’s future, Mbappe came off the bench to score and help strengthen PSG’s grip on the French title.

PSG manager Luis Enrique responded to the Mbappe transfer rumours by dropping the French international to the bench. However, with the score still 0-0 after an hour, Enrique brought on Mbappe along with Ousmane Dembele and Achraf Hakimi.

The increased firepower paid dividends just minutes later when Lucas Hernandez’s long-range strike took a nasty deflection to put PSG ahead. Shortly after, Mbappe won and converted a penalty to double PSG’s advantage.

Nantes captain Pedro Chirivella hit the post with a late chance, but the home side were unable to mount a comeback. PSG’s 14th win from 16 matches reinforces their status as favourites for a record 11th French championship.

Despite Mbappe’s rumoured desire to leave, the 25-year-old showed his quality by making a difference from the bench. PSG will hope to continue their superb form when they host Rennes next weekend. For struggling Nantes, the challenge remains to avoid the drop into the relegation playoff spot.