PARIS: David Beckham made a winning start for Paris Saint-Germain, making his debut as a 76th-minute substitute in the French league leaders 2-0 win over old rivals Marseille.

The former England captain helped create the second goal for Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Beckham said later: “I was a bit nervous. It will take me a while to get back to top form but I’m pleased with the game. It’s a good start.”

PSG are three points clear at the top of the league in pursuit of their first league title since 1994. Ezequiel Lavezzi hit a post in the second minute and they took the lead in the eighth after a shot from Lucs Moura was deflected home off Joey Barton and >> N’Koulou.

Barton, the Englishman who started the game, played a key role as Marseille sought to equalise and dominated the closing stages of the first half.

In the second half Valbuena and Gignac both went close to an equaliser before PSG coach Carlo Ancelotti brought Beckham into the game and he started the move which was carried on by Jeremy Menez for a decisive second goal from Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

 

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