Heads held high [2-3]

The stadium was officially full to the rafters last night (attendance: 41,172), with a fantastic atmosphere as the Girondins prepared to take on current league leaders Paris Saint Germain. The fans were certainly not disappointed by the spectacle on offer, in fact with a little more luck the result could have been very different. That may seem far-fetched, given that Paris were 3-0 up at one point, but football is about more than just scorelines! From the opening whistle, Vladimir Petkovic's side set out to prove that they had no fear. Pressing hard and pushing forward at every opportunity, Girondins made a solid first impression and created some interesting chances for Timothée Pembélé (5’, 45’+1) and Albert Elis (17’). Paris did not actually create much during this opening spell, but it only took a moment of magic from Neymar to change the outlook of this match. Connecting with a pass from Mbappé for his first chance of the evening, the Brazilian slipped past Enock Kwateng and fired a shot ruthlessly past Benoît Costil (0-1, 26’).

Paris had the wind in their sails, and the chances soon started to pile up. Bernat (30’), Draxler (36’) and Mbappé (37’) all came close before Neymar doubled his tally after a great bit of link-up play with Mbappé teed him up for a right-footed shot which he struck with clinical precision (0-2, 43’). Bordeaux were holding their own, but the individual qualities of Paris' megastars made the difference.

The second half picked up where the first had left off, with both sides having a series of chances. For Bordeaux, Yacine Adli (53’) and Albert Elis (57’) tested Navas. For the visitors, the implacable duo of Mbappé (48’, 65’) and Neymar Jr. (55’, 60’) continued to torment Costil. It was Mbappé who scored PSG's 3rd goal, with Wijnaldum providing the assist (0-3, 63’). It looked like the game was over... but the Girondins had other ideas!

Once again, the Girondins demonstrated their never-say-die spirit. PSG gradually stepped off the gas, and Bordeaux's untiring efforts were finally rewarded when Yacine Adli recovered the ball in midfield and fired in a cross for Alberth Elis. Elis shrugged off Mendes and scored (1-3, 78’), prompting an explosion of joy in the stands. Rémi Oudin then tested Navas with a powerful strike (81’), before Mbaye Niang sent the stadium wild again. Well-positioned in the middle, Jimmy Briand called for a "one-two." The Senegal international latched onto Jimmy's pass and slotted home with his right foot (2-3, 90’+2). What a way to score your first goal for the club!

Unfortunately for Bordeaux, time was running out. This game ended in defeat for the Girondins, but the performance they delivered was one of great heart, courage and undying determination. Our boys can hold their heads high after this entertaining match, which shows just how far they have come in recent weeks. With the international break looming, the Girondins now have 2 weeks to keep on working and ensure that they are fully prepared for a crucial away trip to Metz.