Lionel Messi: PSG star combines with Fabian Ruiz for superb goal vs Montpellier | OneFootball

Lionel Messi and Fabian Ruiz combined for a stunning goal in Paris Saint-Germain's 3-1 victory over Montpellier on Wednesday evening.

Goals from Ruiz and Messi gave PSG a two-goal lead with 18 minutes remaining.

Arnaud Nordin's strike set up a grandstand finish, but Montpellier's hopes of a comeback were extinguished Warren Zaire-Emery made the points safe for PSG.

At 16 years old, Zaire-Emery became the youngest scorer in PSG's history.

Messi got on the scoresheet in the 72nd minute - and in some style.

Ruiz had possession roughly 25 yards out and spotted Messi darting into the box.

The Spaniard managed to pick out his teammate with the most precise of through-balls.

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Messi then did the rest as he showed great composure to find the corner of the net. Watch the goal below...

VIDEO: Lionel Messi and Fabián Ruiz combined for stunning goal in Montpellier 1-3 PSG

Messi's finish was ice-cold but what about that pass from Ruiz?! Pure brilliance.

It has to be one of the best assists of 2023 so far.

It wasn't the best of evenings for Kylian Mbappe.

The 24-year-old was in the starting lineup but endured a disastrous stint on the pitch.

Mbappe missed two penalties and an open goal in an incredible passage of play.

In the 21st minute, he was forced off injured after suffering what appeared to be a thigh problem.

The extent of Mbappe's injury is unclear but PSG will be hoping he will be available for their Champions League clash with Bayern Munich on February 14.

Soccer Football - Ligue 1 - Montpellier v Paris St Germain - Stade de la Mosson, Montpellier, France - February 1, 2023 Paris St Germain's Kylian Mbappe reacts after missing a penalty REUTERS/Eric Gaillard

What next for Lionel Messi and PSG?

PSG remain five points clear at the top of Ligue 1 following their victory against Montpellier.

They return to action on Saturday when they welcome Toulouse to the Parc des Princes for their Ligue 1 clash.

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