When Enrique’s Gambit Backfires: PSG Women Salvage a 3-3 Thriller Against Strasbourg

Overview of a dramatic afternoon

Spanish coach Luis Enrique, in charge of Paris Saint-Germain Women, watched his tactical bet tested as his side squandered a 3-3 draw with Strasbourg in the French top flight’s eighth round. PSG had just one win in their prior four matches, with draws against Lille and Strasbourg and a defeat in the classic against Marseille during a week shadowed by the Ballon d’Or ceremony.

Defensive gaps and controversial selections

French press highlighted the hosts’ defensive frailties, noting Strasbourg were the first to breach PSG’s net at Parc des Princes this season. It marked the first time PSG conceded three goals in a short spell since a heavy 1-5 loss to Lille in April 2019.

Goalkeeping saves and the shift that steadied the ship

The report added that PSG goalkeeper Lucas Shovale made four key saves, but the entrance of Ecuadorian defender Willian Pacho after a quarter of the second half helped restore balance for the Parisians after a long period of pressure.

Youth lifting the team and the late equalizer

French daily Le Parisien praised the team’s fighting spirit and the energy of their young trio Zaïr Imri, Kentin Ngantto and Sini Mayolo, who chipped in to turn the game around and salvage a precious point. Mayolo, in particular, shone by filling multiple roles and scoring the late equaliser after stepping into new positions.

Season context and the road ahead

PSG’s campaign so far featured five league wins and a single loss to Marseille, with previous stalemates against Lille and Strasbourg. The club’s strong start, including a 6-3 win over Toulouse and a 2-0 victory over Auxerre, sets up a continental test soon after this match as they prepare to host Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League.

Head-to-head and record against Strasbourg

PSG have enjoyed the rivalry with Strasbourg for decades, tallying 42 wins in 77 meetings across competitions, and a total of 125 goals against Strasbourg to 73 for the Alsatians, according to Transfermarkt.

Looking ahead

The next challenge comes midweek in Europe as PSG aim to keep their streak alive in the Champions League group stage against Bayer Leverkusen after wins over Atalanta and Barcelona in recent weeks.

Punchlines

Punchline 1: If Paris’ defense were a sniper, the target would keep moving—mostly to the goal, apparently. Punchline 2: My Wi‑Fi has better defensive coverage than PSG tonight; at least it doesn’t drop every couple of minutes.