Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) took a commanding step toward the Champions League last 16 with a resounding 3-0 victory over domestic rivals Brest in the first leg of their playoff tie on Tuesday. Ousmane Dembélé was the standout performer, netting a brace to continue his sensational form in front of goal.

PSG, heavy favorites heading into the match, faced a Brest side making their debut in European competition this season. The gulf in class was evident as the Parisians dominated from start to finish, leaving Brest with a mountain to climb in next week’s second leg.

The scoring began at the Stade de Roudourou in Guingamp when Vitinha converted a penalty just before halftime. Dembélé then doubled PSG’s lead with a clinical finish on the stroke of halftime before adding his second and PSG’s third in the 66th minute.

Dembélé’s double extended his remarkable scoring streak, taking his tally to 23 goals for the season, including 18 in his last 11 appearances. The French international has been in scintillating form, scoring 10 goals in his last four games alone. This run includes a hat-trick against Brest in Ligue 1 just 10 days ago, further highlighting his dominance.

Under manager Luis Enrique, PSG have been unstoppable against French opponents, remaining unbeaten since last May. Brest will need a miraculous turnaround in the second leg to keep their European dreams alive, but PSG’s current form suggests that task may be insurmountable.

The Parisians will look to seal their place in the Champions League last 16 when the two sides meet again next week.