Ibrahimovic Hat-Trick for Paris Saint Germain sinks Hong Kong’s Kitchee

Rampant Paris Saint Germain defeated Kitchee 6-2 as Zlatan Ibrahimovic lived up to his superstar billing with a quick fire hat-trick. The expectant crowd almost demanded a clinical display from Ibrahimovic and he did not disappoint his thousands of fans.

Zlatan was clearly the star of the show with each pass and run of his met with almost bated breath and eager anticipation. The hot and oppressive conditions clearly did not upset PSG’s game and tactics as they commanded the game from start to ending. Kitchee thought they could be in line for a major upset as they took the lead as Belencoso headed home an opportunistic goal in the fifth minute after some lax defending by PSG allowed Tarres to loop in a cross which was easily dispatched. This shook the French champions from their slumber and they went on to score six goals in quick succession.

The equalizer came in the 12th minute and was slotted cooly home by Ongenda after some nice wing play from Bahebeck. The latter was rewarded in the 22nd minute when he put PSG ahead. Careless defending in the 25th minute allowed Ibrahimovic to break his duck as he capitalized on a mistake to give PSG a two goal cushion. PSG were in cruise control but still came searching for more.  The fleet footed and pacy Jean-Christophe Bahebeck was again on hand in the 28th minute to cross over to Ibrahimovic who again simply side footed and found the back of the net. Within half an hour, PSG were 4-1 up and in total control. Kitchee were being pegged back by the French side’s rapid passing and off the ball movements and had nothing in return.

PSG collect their trophy

In the second half, PSG refused to let up and in the 57th minute, Bahebeck doubled his tally for the night after a decisive through ball by Pastore. Ibrahimovic completed his hat trick in the 74th minute with a towering header to complete his night’s work; he then left the field to a thundering ovation and applause. With the clock winding down, Kitchee pulled back a goal with Alexander Akande sliding home after reckless defending again from PSG.

Another talking point was the appearance of Edinson Cavani who had flown in to Hong Kong after the rest of the team. Transfer speculation has been rife about Cavani so his appearance at Hong Kong stadium as an used subsitute will only add speculation about his future and if he is staying or leaving. The crowd had come to see goals and an Ibrahimovic masterclass in finishing, technique and skills. They were not disappointed. PSG now travel to Beijing to compete in Saturday’s Trophee des Champions.

Christopher KL Lau is the Hong Kong Correspondent for Wild East Football.

All pictures courtesy of Eric Li

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