The defeat of champions PSG by an underprivileged neighbour

In a stunning upset that has left French football fans reeling, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) were eliminated from the French Cup at the hands of their city neighbours, Paris FC. The match, played at PSG’s home ground, Parc des Princes, ended 1-0 in favour of the underdogs, with the decisive goal scored by former PSG academy player Jonathan Ikoné.

Paris FC, newly promoted to the top tier this season, have historically been overshadowed by their affluent neighbours. Founded in 1969, the club has yet to achieve any major trophy and fields a squad without high-profile stars. Yet on Tuesday night, they demonstrated remarkable organisation and resilience to hold off one of Europe’s strongest teams.

The game’s first half saw PSG dominate possession but struggle to convert control into scoring opportunities. The visitors’ defence remained disciplined, neutralising several threatening attacks. PSG’s best chance before half-time came through Khávitsa Kavareskelia, whose shot was superbly saved by Paris FC’s goalkeeper Obed N’Kambadio, who would finish the night with seven crucial saves.

After the interval, PSG pressed aggressively and created several promising chances. However, Paris FC struck decisively on the counterattack. In the 74th minute, Ikoné delivered a clinical finish to put the underdogs ahead. Despite further PSG pressure—one shot even rattling the crossbar—Paris FC held firm to secure a historic victory, marking PSG’s earliest French Cup exit since 2014.

Reflecting on his winning goal, Ikoné said, “We are truly delighted. We managed our defensive duties well. I am very happy to have scored, and I hope this will not be my last goal for the team.”

The result underscores the unpredictability of derby matches and highlights how tactical discipline and determination can overcome financial might and star-studded squads.

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This remarkable derby victory ensures Paris FC progress to the French Cup Round of 16, while PSG, the defending champions, face an early exit from the tournament—a rare and humbling setback for the Parisian giants.