# Paris Saint-Germain Thrash Nice 3-1 with Messi's Goal and Neymar's Assist, Neymar Scores Twice
Paris Saint-Germain delivered a commanding performance in their Ligue 1 clash against Nice, securing a 3-1 victory. The match, which took place at the Parc des Princes, saw PSG dominate from the first whistle and ultimately run out comfortable winners.
The game started with high intensity, and PSG took the lead in the 14th minute when Lionel Messi fired a powerful shot past Nice goalkeeper Benoit Costil. The Argentine star, who has been in stellar form this season, showed his class with a clinical finish, and PSG were ahead early on.
Despite the early goal, Nice responded well and almost leveled the score in the 30th minute when Gaëtan Laborde struck the post. However, the visitors were struggling to create clear chances against a well-organized PSG defense. The first half ended with PSG holding a 1-0 lead.
In the second half, PSG’s dominance told as they scored twice in quick succession. Neymar junior, who had been influential in the game, played a perfect cross-field pass to Messi, who teed up Kylian Mbappé. But the Frenchman’s shot was saved by Costil. However, Neymar wasn’t to be denied in the 63rd minute when he fired a low shot past Costil to make it 2-0.
Neymar doubled his tally in the 72nd minute with a stunning strike from outside the box, extending PSG’s lead to 3-0. Despite a late rally from Nice, who pulled one back through Terem Moffi in stoppage time, PSG held on for a well-deserved victory.
### Standout Performances
Neymar was the star of the match, scoring twice and assisting Messi’s opener. His combination play and clinical finishing were key to PSG’s victory. Meanwhile, Messi continued his impressive form with a goal and an assist, showcasing his world-class ability.
PSG’s defense also deserve credit for keeping Nice at bay, particularly after losing central defender Marquinhos to injury in the first half. Jérémy Doku and Achraf Hakimi were also influential in midfield, providing energy and drive.
### Post-Match Reaction
After the win, PSG manager Mauricio Pochettino praised his side’s performance and highlighted the importance of the victory in their quest for the title. “We needed to win this game, and we did,” Pochettino said. “Neymar was fantastic, and Messi’s goal was crucial. The whole team worked well together, and we’re happy with the result.”
For his part, Neymar expressed his pride in the team’s effort. “We fought hard for this win,” he said. “It’s an important three points for us, and we’ll keep pushing until the end of the season.”
### Conclusion
Paris Saint-Germain’s 3-1 victory over Nice was a statement win, showcasing their title credentials. With key players like Messi and Neymar in top form, PSG look well-positioned to challenge for the Ligue 1 crown. The team will now turn their attention to their next match, a crucial encounter against Marseille, as they aim to maintain their momentum in the race for glory.