PSG has faced challenges in converting chances this season, which has impacted their performance in the Champions League.
Throughout the match, they struggled with finishing, while Monaco's goalkeeper, Philipp Koehn, made several impressive saves.
Nevertheless, Luis Enrique's side earned a well-deserved win in Qatar, claiming the trophy—similar to the Super Cup in France or England's Community Shield—for the 11th time in the past 12 seasons.
“It was a great game between two teams who play good football,” said Luis Enrique.
“The result is well deserved and reflects our domination… against one of the best teams in France and in Europe.”
This match was originally set to take place in Beijing on August 8 to kick off the French season. But then the Chinese authorities called it off, and Qatar, which owns PSG through Qatar Sports Investments, stepped in to host the game instead. It was held at Doha’s Stadium 974, a venue that saw action during the 2022 World Cup, though the crowd wasn’t full for this match.
PSG had a stellar last season, sweeping all domestic titles in France, and they were eager to start another treble run this year. They kicked things off with a 4-2 victory against Monaco last month, where Dembele scored twice, giving them a solid 10-point lead at the top of Ligue 1 over both Marseille and Monaco.
Things looked tough for Monaco early on when Desire Doue nearly scored after capitalizing on a poor pass from Koehn, hitting the bar just eight minutes in. Vitinha came close with a shot that went wide, and Lee Kang-in had a powerful attempt that Koehn managed to tip over. Monaco also had their chances, with Gianluigi Donnarumma saving a shot from Maghnes Akliouche.
After the break, Eliesse Ben Seghir tested PSG’s keeper again, and Vanderson hit the post from a tricky angle for Monaco. But as the second half progressed, PSG ramped up the pressure. Just when it seemed the match would go to penalties, substitute Fabian Ruiz made a break down the left and delivered a low cross that Dembele finished off at the far post in the 92nd minute.
This win sets PSG up perfectly for a big month ahead, including a crucial Champions League clash against Manchester City on January 22. Monaco also has some important matches coming up, facing Aston Villa and Inter Milan as they aim to advance in the Champions League.
“A goal in the last minute always feels like being stabbed in the back,” said Monaco’s Austrian coach, Adi Huetter.
“But being honest, PSG deserved to win. They had more chances.”