# Paris Saint-Germain 5-1 Montpellier in Round 8: Messi Stars with Hat-Trick and Assist
On Saturday night, the French league giants Paris Saint-Germain faced off against their long-time rivals Montpellier in Round 8 of Ligue 1. The match was marked by a thrilling encounter that saw Lionel Messi lead the way for the hosts with his impressive hat-trick and assist.
### Match Highlights:
#### First Half:
The first half started brightly as PSG dominated possession and controlled the tempo of the game. However, Montpellier managed to find some openings through their attacking play. In the 27th minute, Montpellier's forward scored from close range, giving them an early lead.
#### Second Half:
In the second half, PSG began to assert themselves. Neymar Jr., who had been on the sidelines due to injury, returned to the pitch and quickly made an impact. He broke down the Montpellier defense with a precise pass and then finished it off with a stunning volley into the net. This goal put PSG level at one.
Lionel Messi, though not directly involved in this score, was instrumental in the team's resurgence. In the 64th minute, he delivered a pinpoint cross from the left wing, which was headed home by Neymar. This goal gave PSG a 2-1 lead.
In the 79th minute, Messi stepped up once again. With Montpellier pressing hard, he played a beautifully crafted ball over the defenders, and Antoine Griezmann capitalized with a powerful header into the net. This goal sealed the victory for PSG, putting them 3-1 ahead.
#### Late Moments:
The final stages of the match were tense, with both teams vying for every inch of the pitch. PSG continued to dominate, and with just minutes remaining, Messi once again demonstrated his brilliance. He played a deep ball into the box, where he received a perfect pass from Neymar. With a swift run and a powerful shot, Messi beat the goalkeeper to seal the 5-1 victory for PSG.
### Player Performances:
- **Lionel Messi**: His performance was outstanding, featuring a hat-trick and an assist. He showcased his creativity and technical skills, often playing a pivotal role in setting up scoring chances.
- **Neymar Jr.**: Returning to the starting lineup after a long absence, Neymar demonstrated his fitness and leadership qualities. His goal and assist were crucial in turning the tide of the game.
- **Antoine Griezmann**: Despite missing several games due to injury, Griezmann made a significant contribution with his headers and overall presence on the field.
### Impact on the League Table:
This victory moved PSG up to third place in Ligue 1, while Montpellier dropped back to fourth. It also highlighted the strength of PSG's attack under manager Thomas Tuchel, who has been praised for his tactical flexibility and ability to capitalize on opportunities.
### Conclusion:
The match between Paris Saint-Germain and Montpellier was a testament to the skill and teamwork of both teams. Lionel Messi's performance was particularly noteworthy, showcasing his ability to influence the game with both his individual goals and assists. As PSG continues to build momentum in Ligue 1, this win serves as a strong foundation for future success.