Paris: An embattled Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), missing several key starters, climbed to the summit of the French Ligue 1 with a pulsating 3-2 away victory over bottom-side Metz, showcasing the promise of their academy in a hard-fought contest.

According to Oman News Agency, deprived of Ousmane Demb©l©, Achraf Hakimi, and captain Marquinhos due to injury, manager Luis Enrique turned to youth. The gamble paid dividends as teenage wingers Ibrahim Mbaye (17) and Quentin Ndjantou (18) combined brilliantly for the second goal. Mbaye’s electric run and low cross was met by Ndjantou with a sliding finish for his first senior strike, doubling PSG’s lead after Gon§alo Ramos’s opener.

Metz, however, refused to capitulate. Jessy Deminguet’s superb strike from distance just before halftime reignited the contest. PSG restored their two-goal cushion shortly after the hour mark through substitute D©sir© Doue, who marked his return from a hamstring injury with a composed finish.

The hosts set up a frantic finale when Giorgi Tsitaishvili unleashed a spectacular rocket into the top corner in the 81st minute. Despite late pressure, PSG’s makeshift defense held firm to secure three vital points.

The victory sends PSG temporarily top, though Lens can reclaim first place with a win over Nice tonight. For Metz, a spirited performance yields no reward, leaving them rooted to the foot of the table.