Messi, the former Barcelona striker, made his debut as a 66-minute substitute for his friend Neymar. He wore his new number 30 PSG shirt, receiving a standing ovation from the sell-out crowd.
This was Messis first club game after his exit from Barcelona, the team he has been with his entire career. Mauricio Pochettino, head coach of PSG, said Messi is still not in his best form but is doing well in his training. He told Amazon the striker would be fit within the next two weeks.
Pochettino further said he was happy for Messis debut and wants the best for him as this was very important for the striker. PSGs boss also commended the forwards first game with the team as he gave them peace of mind. He also said it was good for Messi to start again with a win.
Besides Messi, his teammates also made great contributions to the game. Kylian Mbappe, possibly on his final appearance for PSG, scored two goals. Real Madrid seems to be adamant about signing him before the transfer deadline on Tuesday. But Pochettino said it was all just rumors and that Mbappe remains their player.
The headlines are all about Messi, though, when he finally came on after the second goal. Previously disappointed fans who thought he would only be warming up the bench chanted his name when he came on court. He did not have any shooting opportunities, but Pochettino remarked that he brought serenity to the team.