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Achraf Hakimi scored a hat-trick as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) defeated bottom-placed Le Havre 5-1 on Friday to extend their lead at the top of Ligue 1.
Despite several players missing through injury, the European champions delivered an impressive performance. PSG moved to 20 points from their opening nine league matches.
They now lead second-placed Lille by two points and sit four points ahead of third-placed Rennes, who have 16 points.
Le Havre briefly threatened an upset when Josh Maja gave the hosts an early lead at Stade Océane.
Hakimi helped PSG respond by setting up Mika Godts for the equaliser. The Morocco international then put his side ahead in the 28th minute with a close-range finish at the near post.
He added his second goal in the 55th minute, sending a free kick into the bottom corner.
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Hakimi later played a key role in PSG’s fourth goal. His involvement in a counterattack helped Senny Mayulu make it 4-1 in the 62nd minute.
The fullback completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute with a deflected effort.
The victory marked PSG’s ninth consecutive win in all competitions. Le Havre, meanwhile, suffered their fifth successive defeat and remained bottom of the table with two points.
PSG coach Luis Enrique welcomed the performances of players who have had limited opportunities this season.
“I am happy because some players had very little playing time. If we want to win trophies, we need everyone,” he said.
He also highlighted the opportunities created by injuries within the squad.
“With injuries, opportunities arise. That was particularly the case tonight for Quentin Ndjantou and David Boly, who made his Ligue 1 debut,” Enrique added.
Elsewhere, Lille climbed into second place after securing a 1-0 derby victory over RC Lens.
Veteran striker Olivier Giroud came off the bench to score the winning goal in the 86th minute.
Rennes endured a difficult evening, suffering a 5-2 defeat away to Nice.
Elye Wahi scored a hat-trick as Nice continued their improved form. The forward converted two first-half penalties before adding a first-time finish in the 73rd minute.
The victory marked Nice’s fourth win in five outings. They moved up to seventh place after narrowly avoiding relegation last season.
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