Godts scores first goal and reassures PSG after Kvaratskhelia injury

Paris Saint-Germain responded to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s absence by dominating Lyon 2-0 on Monday evening, with decisive substitutes and a first goal from Mika Godts in red and blue.

The Georgian striker, who is set to undergo surgery in Doha early next week following a serious injury, was at the heart of Luis Enrique’s comments in his press conference. “I would like to dedicate this victory to Kvara,” the PSG coach said. “We are very proud of him and the supporters showed him their support. This victory especially is for Kvara.”

While the lengthy absence of the former Napoli player deprives PSG of a major attacking option, it was precisely the bench that made the difference against Lyon. Luis Enrique praised the collective performance of his substitutes: “It’s a very important thing because they show their level. And not only Senny Mayulu, Mika Godts and Quentin Ndjantou, but also Beraldo and Lucas Hernandez.”

The Godts case illustrates well the new perspectives opened by this absence. Signed to provide backup to Kvaratskhelia on the left wing, the 21-year-old Belgian will not necessarily be thrust into the role of undisputed starter: Luis Enrique is counting on the versatility of Désiré Doué and Ferran Torres to manage rotation. But this first goal could free the former Ajax player, who had struggled so far to find his feet.

“He started the season with a lot of desire, the desire to dribble past the second player before even dribbling past the first, but that’s not how it works,” Luis Enrique analysed. “I think today he took all the pressure off his head.” The Asturian coach was keen to place Godts in a long-term perspective: “We signed Mika Godts to be here for many years. He needed this goal, that’s clear, and I hope he has regained some calm because he is a very good level player.”