Lyon's first defeat in six matches — and its heaviest since November — paves the way for PSG's third consecutive title. PSG, which also has a superior goal difference of 45 versus 38 for Lyon, thrashed Guingamp 6-0 on Friday and will wrap up the title next weekend if it manages a draw at Montpellier.
Second-place Lyon, which failed to secure automatic qualification for Champions League football next season, crumbled under pressure and conceded two goals in three minutes before halftime. "We did not deserve anything today," said Lyon midfielder Steed Malbranque. "They were stronger in every challenge. The fight for the title is over, now we need to hang on to our second place."
Nicolas Benezet opened the scoring in the 41st minute with a shot between goalkeeper Antony Lopes' legs before doubling his tally with a solo effort. Sloan Privat sealed the hosts' win on the break five minutes from time.
The match started at a slow pace with neither side able to hold possession or exploit defenses despite a couple of lapses from defender Bakary Kone within the first 10 minutes. Without the suspended Christophe Jallet and the injured Clinton Njie, Lyon failed to develop its trademark attacking football and was denied its rare chances by 'keeper Remy Vercoutre, who put in an outstanding performance against his former club.
Privat came close in the 11th with a header which just went wide. Caen players had their penalty claims denied two minutes later after Mouhamadou Dabo apparently fouled Fode Koita in the box. The reckless tackle was a wake-up call to the lethargic Lyon side, with Alexandre Lacazette forcing Vercoutre to a save with a low shot from the edge of the box.
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