PSG Survive Penalty Shootout to Defend French Cup Title, Marseille Cruise to Victory

Paris Saint-Germain began their French Cup defense with a hard-fought win over Lens, edging through 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Goalkeeper Matvey Safonov, starting in place of the injured Gianluigi Donnarumma, was the hero, saving penalties from M’Bala Nzola and Andy Diouf. Goncalo Ramos had equalized for PSG after Abdukodir Khusanov’s opener for Lens.

In other action, Marseille thrashed Saint-Étienne 4-0, taking full advantage of an early red card for the hosts. Mason Greenwood scored his 11th goal of the season, while Adrien Rabiot, Luis Henrique, and Pierre-Emile Højbjerg also found the net. Marseille will face Lille in the next round.

Monaco won 4-1 at minnows Union Saint-Jean, while Rennes triumphed 4-1 at Bordeaux. Angers also progressed, and Dunkerque eliminated Ligue 1's Auxerre with a 1-0 win.