Kylian Mbappe on target as PSG defeat Rennes to reach French Cup Final

Kylian Mbappe's goal propelled Paris St Germain to the French Cup final with a 1-0 victory over Stade Rennais on Wednesday, bringing them one step closer to a 15th trophy.

A dominant PSG looked poised to take the lead early in the game, but goalkeeper Steve Mandanda foiled their efforts and saved a penalty from Mbappe in the 37th minute.

However, the 25-year-old striker broke the deadlock three minutes later, latching on to Fabian Ruiz's pass for his eighth goal of the tournament as the Parc des Princes erupted.

PSG will face Olympique Lyonnais in the cup final on May 25, following their 3-0 victory over Valenciennes FC on Tuesday.

Rennes desperately needed an equaliser in the second half to force a penalty shootout, but Martin Terrier's effort was the best they could muster, while Mandanda denied PSG a further advantage.

"It was a difficult first half but we completely dominated the game. Rennes were very good. We had a lot of pace in the first half and in the second half we had the chance to make it two but Mandanda was impressive," PSG boss Luis Enrique said.

"Cups in any country are particularly important and this has been one of our objectives since the start of the season."

PSG, who lead the Ligue 1 standings, face Clermont Foot on Saturday before hosting Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal on Wednesday.

"Before we think about the Champions League, we have to think about Clermont. It's important for the team to perform at a high level in all competitions," Luis Enrique added.

"Playing against my former team (Barca) will be nice but I want us to be competitive and play a great game."

SportsLigue