"This is a pivotal moment; victory is non-negotiable," Luis Enrique had insisted in the build-up. It was a directive his Paris Saint-Germain side followed to the letter.

On their travels to the French Riviera ahead of the international break, the Parisians delivered a business-like performance. While perhaps lacking the sheer sparkle of their recent triumphs over Chelsea, they remained lethally efficient in front of goal, overcoming the absence of several first-team regulars to secure the points.

Against a struggling OGC Nice outfit (15th, 27 points), Paris underlined their burgeoning momentum. The result keeps them ahead in a tense title battle with Lens, who kept up the pressure with a commanding victory over Angers.

Thanks to this result, PSG secured a third straight win and returned to top spot in Ligue 1 with 60 points, while still holding a crucial game in hand over their rivals.

A commanding performance

The deadlock was broken just before the interval when Nuno Mendes (42nd minute) coolly converted from the penalty spot, snapping a frustrating run of missed opportunities from 12 yards.

After the restart, Desire Doue doubled the advantage, before 18-year-old Dro Fernandez announced himself with his first goal in Parisian colours, finishing off a superb solo run.

Warren Zaire-Emery then put the gloss on the scoreline (4-0), rounding off a move expertly crafted by Lucas Beraldo.

The ever-dangerous Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was a constant threat with his trademark direct running, while substitute Ousmane Dembele made a significant impact from the bench, providing the assists for the final two goals.

Injury concerns dampen the mood

Yet, the victory was tempered by further fitness woes for an already stretched squad. Both Senny Mayulu (calf) and Lee Kang-In (ankle) were forced off prematurely, adding to Luis Enrique's selection headaches.

The contest ended on a sour note for the hosts as Youssouf Ndayishimiye was sent off for a reckless challenge, while the atmosphere was further stained by hostile chanting directed at PSG from the home supporters.

Dro Fernández

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