PSG fails to close gap on Monaco after 0-0 draw vs. Toulouse

Days after producing one of the best matches in its history, Paris Saint-Germain fell back to earth with a 0-0 home draw against Toulouse in the French league on Sunday.

Rather than closing the gap at the top, PSG remains three points behind Monaco - which has a much better goal difference - and is level on points with third-place Nice.

“We missed a chance but we must keep going,” PSG coach Unai Emery said. “I believe in the team.”

This was nothing like the rampant PSG side that beat Barcelona 4-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday night, tearing the five-time European champion apart with a breathtaking attacking display in the first leg of their Round of 16 match.

Although PSG is unbeaten in 13 games, this was a poor performance from Emery’s side, which lost 2-0 at Toulouse in one of four league defeats this season.

“We need to work harder to open up packed defenses,” Emery said. “We needed a bit more energy and desire today.”

PSG was missing winger Angel Di Maria, who scored twice against Barcelona, while midfielder Marco Verratti started on the bench.

“You have to look after all of the players,” Emery said, explaining his changes. “Those who need to play matches and those who need to rest to avoid muscle fatigue.”

Verratti came on at halftime and immediately upped the tempo.

Soon after the break, top scorer Edinson Cavani had a shot saved by teenage goalkeeper Alban Lafont, who was outstanding when Toulouse beat PSG 2-0 in September.

The 18-year-old Lafont denied Cavani again in the 52nd minute from close range, and Cavani held his head in frustration after hitting the post from the rebound.

Winger Julian Draxler, who also scored against Barca, telegraphed a tame shot at Lafont as anxiety grew among fans hoping for another goal feast at Parc des Princes.

With 20 minutes left, Brazilian defender Marquinhos saw his goalbound header blocked by Presnel Kimpembe, his own teammate, who was lurking near the line.

From glory to frustration: it was that kind of night for PSG.

Even with six minutes of injury time, PSG failed to find a winner against a modest side placed eighth in Ligue 1.

Monaco drew 1-1 away to struggling Bastia on Friday night, while Nice won 1-0 away to last-place Lorient on Saturday.

Next weekend, PSG faces a tough trip away to play bitter rival Marseille.