PARIS (AP) — Paris Saint-Germain returned to the top of the French league on Saturday, defeating last-place Metz 3-0 to capitalize on Monaco's earlier victory over previous leader Lens.
Désiré Doué, Bradley Barcola and Goncalo Ramos scored for PSG, who moved two points clear of Lens with 11 rounds remaining.
Match Summary
Doué opened the scoring after just two minutes, finishing a long ball from Warren Zaïre-Emery behind Metz' high defensive line.
Barcola headed the second before halftime, converting a cross from Ramos.
Ramos completed the scoring in the 77th minute to seal the victory.
PSG could have scored more but appeared focused on conserving energy for Wednesday's Champions League playoff second leg against Monaco in Paris.
How PSG Regained the Lead
Monaco handed PSG the opportunity to return to the top with a stunning comeback victory over Lens.
Odsonne Édouard gave Lens an early lead with a volley, and Florian Thauvin extended the lead after the halftime break.
However, Monaco refused to surrender. Folarin Balogun pulled one back in the 62nd minute, Denis Zakaria equalized in the 70th, and Ansu Fati capitalized on another defensive error to complete the 3-2 comeback two minutes later.
This result enabled PSG to overtake Lens in the standings and reclaim first place.
Context
The win sets up a crucial week for PSG, who will face Monaco in the Champions League playoff second leg. The winner will advance to face either Barcelona or Chelsea in the round of 16.
Lens had briefly moved to the top the previous weekend following a 5-0 victory over promoted Paris FC while PSG suffered a 3-1 defeat at Rennes. But their hopes of a prolonged stay at the summit ended with Saturday's loss.