Sunday May 28, 2023
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) made history by claiming their record 11th French league title with a 1-1 draw against Strasbourg.
Lionel Messi scored the opening goal, which also marked his 496th career league goal in Europe, breaking Cristiano Ronaldo's record for most goals in Europe's top five leagues. The result gave PSG an unassailable four-point lead over second-placed Lens with one game remaining in the season.
Lens secured the coveted second place and guaranteed them a ticket to the Champions League group stage for the following season. Marseille settled in third place and will enter the Champions League in the third qualifying round. Lille, who came from behind to beat Nantes 2-1, moved up to fourth position and are in pole position to qualify for the Europa League.
Meanwhile, Nantes faced the looming threat of relegation as they sit in 17th place, two points behind Auxerre, who drew 1-1 against Toulouse. Angers, Ajaccio and Troyes have already been relegated as four teams go down this season, reducing the top 20 clubs to 18.
The historic win marked PSG's ninth title in 11 seasons and cemented their dominance of French football under Qatari ownership. It also surpassed the previous record of 10 titles held by Saint-Etienne in 1981. PSG started the season strongly but faced setbacks with early league losses and early exits from the Champions League and French Cup.
Speculation has surrounded the future of PSG coach Christophe Galtier, especially after the team's recent disappointments. In addition, Lionel Messi's contract expires at the end of the season, fueling rumors of a possible exit from the club.
The title-winning moment will be celebrated at the Parc des Princes when PSG take on Clermont in what could potentially be Messi's last game for the club. Despite criticism and an early-season suspension, Messi's goal sealed the title win and added another major trophy to his illustrious career.
In conclusion, PSG's historic 11th French league title, Lens' Champions League qualification and an intense relegation battle involving Nantes and Auxerre were the highlights of the final games of the season. The future remains uncertain for PSG with potential changes in the coaching staff and the impending departure of Lionel Messi.
