Achraf Hakimi scored a hat-trick as Paris Saint-Germain thrashed Le Havre 5-1 away from home on Friday to strengthen their position at the top of the French Ligue 1 table.
The Moroccan defender delivered an outstanding attacking performance as the defending champions recovered from an early setback to secure a comfortable victory despite making several changes to their starting line-up.
Le Havre stunned the visitors in the 18th minute when Josh Maja fired home the opening goal against the run of play after the hosts launched a quick attack.
However, PSG responded eight minutes later as Belgian winger Mika Godts converted Hakimi’s pass to restore parity.
The visitors completed their comeback two minutes later when Hakimi raced past the Le Havre defence before unleashing a powerful low strike into the near post to make it 2-1.
Hakimi extended PSG’s advantage before half-time with a superb free-kick that beat goalkeeper Arnaud Bodard, putting the visitors firmly in control at 3-1.
Senny Mayulu added a fourth just after the hour mark, capitalising on Le Havre’s attacking approach to score from distance after rounding the goalkeeper, who had moved far away from his goal.
Hakimi completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute with a well-placed effort through a crowded penalty area before Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique substituted him shortly after his celebration.
Speaking after the match, Enrique explained that Hakimi’s attacking freedom was part of his tactical instructions, adding that the defender was expected to contribute offensively while maintaining his defensive responsibilities when possession was lost.
The victory took PSG to 20 points from nine matches, giving them a two-point advantage over second-placed Lille, who defeated Lens 1-0 through Olivier Giroud’s 86th-minute strike.
Rennes, who had been PSG’s closest challengers, suffered a 5-2 defeat at Nice and remained fourth with 16 points.
Meanwhile, Monaco have an opportunity to move level with Lille when they face Paris FC on Sunday.
