PARIS: Paris Saint Germain claimed a 4-3 win on penalties at Lens to reach the French Cup last 32 after a 1-1 stalemate in regular time on Sunday.
M’Bala Nzola was both hero and villain for the host, giving it an unexpected lead in the 66th minute but missing its fourth kick of the shootout.
PSG reserve goalkeeper Matvei Safonov then saved Andy Diouf’s spot kick to hand his side the victory with all of its penalty takers scoring with their first four.
“I’m happy. I don’t think I’m the man of the match. Stopping penalties is normal for a goalkeeper. It was a tough game against a very good team,” Safonov told beIN Sports.
The Parisians had looked dominant for much of the contest but briefly found themselves behind before Goncalo Ramos levelled in the 70th minute.
PSG will face fourth-tier Espaly in the next round, which will be played between January 14-16. Agencies
Also Read: Football: Paris Saint-Germain extend lead at the top with win against Lyon
Also Watch: