Overview
- Paris Saint-Germain thrashed Rennes 5-0 at the Parc des Princes to close within one point of Ligue 1 leaders Lens.
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored twice and dominated on the flank, a timely surge after domestic inconsistency previously attributed to lingering thigh issues and a curtailed preseason.
- With Lucas Chevalier sidelined by an ankle problem, Matvey Safonov started, made key saves, and secured a clean sheet to strengthen his case in the goalkeeper hierarchy.
- Luis Enrique said Zabarnyi was out because he was sick and rejected social-media speculation suggesting a politically motivated absence related to Safonov.
- PSG remain short-handed through injuries to several regulars and now pivot to a midweek Champions League match against Athletic Bilbao.