Paris Saint-Germain began their 2025/26 Ligue 1 campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Nantes at the Parc des Princes, thanks to a second-half strike from Vitinha.
Life After Mbappé
All eyes were on PSG as they stepped into a new era without their former talisman Kylian Mbappé, who departed for Real Madrid over last years summer. The champions, also missing captain Marquinhos and first-choice goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, fielded a reshuffled side but still carried the weight of expectation against a stubborn Nantes outfit.
Cagey First Half
Luis Enrique’s side dominated possession in the early stages, probing patiently through Gonzalo Ramos and Bradley Barcola. However, Nantes set up compactly and frustrated the Parisians, forcing them into speculative efforts. The visitors looked dangerous on the counterattack, testing PSG’s makeshift back line, but neither side managed to break the deadlock before halftime.
Vitinha Provides the Spark
The breakthrough arrived in the 67th minute with Vitinha unleashed a crisp strike that beat Lopes and nestled into the corner. The goal relieved the tension inside the Parc des Princes and set PSG on course for their first three points of the season.
Nantes’ Late Push
To their credit, Nantes responded positively, pushing higher up the pitch in search of an equaliser, but PSG held on, with their younger defenders showing composure under pressure.
A New Chapter Begins
The result may not have been a statement of dominance, but it was exactly what PSG needed: a win to open the season in the post-Mbappé era. With Vitinha stepping up as the match-winner and a new-look side grinding out the result, Luis Enrique will be encouraged by his squad’s resilience as they look to defend their Ligue 1 crown.