Paris Saint-Germain endured a rocky start to their Ligue 1 title defence after being held to a 2-2 draw away at Stade Rennes, a result that came only after summer signings Ferran Torres and Mika Godts were introduced from the bench in the second half.
PSG travelled to Rhoazon Park as heavy favourites, but the reigning champions endured a torrid opening 45 minutes. Rennes, inspired by former Feyenoord man Sebastian Szymanski and Esteban Lepaul, punished PSG’s vulnerability on the counter-attack and raced into a commanding lead. Desiré Doué thought he had pulled one back for PSG before half-time, but his effort was ruled out for offside, leaving Luis Enrique’s side staring at a shock defeat.
Godts and Ferran Called Into Action
According to pre-match reports, there had been plenty of speculation in the French media about what roles Luis Enrique had planned for his two new attacking recruits, Ferran Torres and Mika Godts. An hour before kick-off, the answer arrived: both big-money arrivals started the match on the bench.
But with PSG in danger of a damaging opening-day loss, the Spanish coach turned to his substitutes at the break. Both Godts and Ferran were introduced for the start of the second half, and the change immediately altered the complexion of the game. Godts, playing with visible confidence, took on responsibility for PSG’s corners, while Ferran Torres set about repairing the damage on the scoresheet.
Ferran the Hero, Godts Impresses on Debut
Ferran Torres, who famously scored the winning goal in the World Cup final for Spain, struck twenty minutes from time to reduce the deficit, latching onto a pass from compatriot Fabián Ruiz. The goal reignited belief among the visitors, who pushed forward in search of an equaliser.
Ten minutes from time, Ferran was at it again. This time he shrugged off the challenge of Quentin Merlin and headed the ball past Rennes goalkeeper Brice Samba to complete the comeback and level the score at 2-2. Once again, it was Fabián Ruiz who provided the assist, underlining the growing understanding between the two Spaniards.
PSG pushed hard in the closing stages in search of a winner, but Rennes’ defence held firm to secure a share of the spoils. As reports from the match noted, it was ultimately Ferran Torres who prevented what would have been an embarrassing defeat for the French champions on the opening day of the season.
A Mixed Start for PSG
Despite the disappointment of dropping points, there will be plenty of encouragement for Luis Enrique from the impact of his two substitutes. Godts, still awaiting his first senior goal or assist for the club, showed flashes of composure and willingness to take responsibility in his first appearance, while Ferran Torres underlined his quality with a match-saving cameo.
For Rennes, having led comfortably before conceding twice in the closing stages, the point will still be cherished as a solid result against one of Europe’s most feared sides. PSG, meanwhile, will hope this shaky start is not a sign of things to come as they begin their title defence.