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Ligue 1

PSG: Unai Emery concedes defeat in Ligue 1 title race

The PSG coach has congratulated Monaco on their imminent Ligue 1 title win, with the principality side needing one point from two games
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PSG: Unai Emery concedes defeat in Ligue 1 title race
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PSG boss Unai Emery has conceded defeat in his side's Ligue 1 title challenge and has offered Monaco his congratulations, even though the reigning champions can mathematically still catch the leaders.

PSG beat Saint-Etienne 5-0 on Sunday to postpone Monaco's title celebrations, but the Stade Louis II side's 4-0 win over Lille means their first title since 1999-2000 is a mere matter of time.

Monaco need just one point from their last two games and even two defeats are unlikely to cost them due to their superior goal difference.

Emery has now acknowledged PSG's dominance has come to an end after four seasons and he is determined to improve ahead of next campaign.

Emery: "We could have been champions"

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PHILIPPE DESMAZESAFP

"Monaco have had a great season," Emery told reporters. "Mathematically they have not secured the title yet, but I congratulate them on the great job they have done. This competition for the title is good for French football.

"We could have been champions if you look at the number of points we have won this season, but it was not enough because of Monaco. We lost four games and that was too many. We improved over the course of the season, but it was not enough.

"We have to be critical of our own performances. I am always critical in order to keep improving."

A draw against Saint-Etienne on Wednesday will suffice for Monaco to win the title.

Jardim:"Nothing is finished"

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YANN COATSALIOUAFP

However, Monaco manager Leonardo Jardim has cautioned his players against complacency after midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko started the celebrations after Monaco’s victory on Sunday.

"For me, we are champions," said Bakayoko. "It's very unlikely that Paris will score I do not know how many goals, but it's done for me."

But Jardim quickly curbed any premature celebrations during his post-match news conference.

"Before this match, there was a need for four points. Now we need a point On Wednesday, we have to score the points to win the championship. I ask for a last effort and concentration.

"I respect football, I am not here to laugh. We saw Barcelona score three goals in three minutes [against PSG]. Always respect the opponent. Yes, it is closer [the title] but nothing is finished."