# Ligue 1 Round 8: Paris Saint-Germain Thrash Montpellier 5-1, Messi Scores Hat-Trick and Assists

Paris Saint-Germain delivered a commanding performance in their Ligue 1 clash against Montpellier on Saturday, securing a 5-1 victory at Stade de France. The match was a showcase of skill, determination, and brilliance, with Argentine star Lionel Messi leading the charge.

The game started at 8 PM, and from the first whistle, Paris Saint-Germain looked intent on dominating. Montpellier, despite their defensive strengths, struggled to contain the visitors' attack. The scoreline was settled early as Messi scored a stunning hat-trick, becoming the first player to reach 300 goals in Ligue 1 history in the process. His first goal came in the 14th minute, a clinical finish inside the box, and he added a second just before halftime with a powerful strike from outside the area.

The third goal, which sealed his hat-trick, came in the 68th minute, and it was a thing of beauty. Messi received the ball on the edge of the box, stepped up, and fired a low shot past Montpellier goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte. His contribution wasn't just goals; he also played a pivotal role in creating chances for his teammates. His assist for Kylian Mbappé's second-half goal and his perfectly weighted cross for Achraf Hakimi's goal showed his unselfish play.

While Messi was the standout performer, other players also played their part. Mbappé, who scored twice, linked the play superbly, and Hakimi contributed with a well-taken goal. The defense, led by Marquinhos and Presnel Kimpembe, kept Montpellier at bay, and the midfield trio of Verratti, Paredes, and Myles Malone worked tirelessly to control the tempo of the game.

Montpellier, despite their efforts, struggled to break down Paris Saint-Germain's defense. Their best chance came in the 50th minute when Steffen Baumgart fired a shot wide of the post. The visitors' lack of cutting edge in front of goal ultimately cost them, as Paris Saint-Germain's clinical finishing told.

The victory sends a strong message ahead of the title race, showing Paris Saint-Germain's intent to challenge for the league title. With Messi in such impressive form, the capital club looks like a formidable force this season.

As the final whistle blew, the Stade de France erupted in celebration, and the players celebrated their dominant performance. For Paris Saint-Germain, the match was a statement of their quality and determination, and for Lionel Messi, it was yet another chapter in his legendary career.