Lee Kang-in (24) of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has once again proven that he possesses 'championship DNA.' However, it remains a regret that he could not play in the match that confirmed the victory.
PSG defeated Stade de Reims 3-0 on the 25th (Korea time) in the final of the 2024-2025 Coupe de France (French Cup) held at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, France.
With this win, PSG captured its 16th overall French Cup title, extending its lead over Olympique de Marseille, which has 10 titles, and solidifying its position as the team with the most victories in the tournament.
PSG dominated the match from the beginning. In the 16th minute of the first half, Bradley Barcola received a penetrating pass from Nordin Muani, evaded a defender, and scored the opening goal with a right-footed shot.
Shortly after, another goal followed. Three minutes later, Barcola once again received a pass from Muani and shook the net with a shot that changed direction in front of the goal. In the 43rd minute, Achraf Hakimi finished off Barcola's cross, scoring the final goal.
PSG managed the game steadily in the second half, achieving a comprehensive 3-0 victory and securing the Coupe de France trophy.
This season, PSG has triumphed in the Trophée des Champions (Super Cup), Ligue 1, and Coupe de France. The achievement of the club's first quadruple will be determined based on the outcome of the UEFA Champions League (UCL) final.
PSG will clash with Inter Milan in the UCL final on June 1.
Attention is now focused on Lee Kang-in's potential to achieve a quadruple, but many believe he will not participate in the UCL match.
Lee Kang-in was named on the bench for the match against Reims but did not step onto the field. Nonetheless, he participated in the Coupe de France award ceremony with a bright smile, holding the trophy with his teammates while draping the Taegeukgi around his waist and greeting fans.
Having missed the last two official matches, including the final match of Ligue 1 against Auxerre on the 18th, Lee Kang-in's chances of being utilized in the upcoming 'Battle of the Stars' against Inter Milan next month seem low. It is unlikely that PSG manager Luis Enrique, who overlooked Lee in the Coupe de France, would suddenly use a player he has not relied upon in the 'bigger stage' of the UCL.
Still, for now, Lee Kang-in is looking for opportunities.
Meanwhile, after winning Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and the Super Cup this season, achieving three consecutive titles in France, Lee Kang-in has now claimed his seventh trophy in total, including the Copa del Rey with Valencia during the 2018-2019 season.
[Photo] Lee Kang-in / Lee Kang-in social media account
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