PSG vs Barcelona: Barcelona stunned PSG 3-2 in a Champions League classic. Raphinha’s brace gave Barca the lead before PSG fought back. A late winner by Christensen secured a vital first-leg advantage for the Blaugrana.
PSG vs Barcelona: Barcelona Stun PSG in Dramatic Champions League First Leg (2-3)
The Parc des Princes witnessed a Champions League classic on Wednesday night as Barcelona emerged victorious 3-2 against PSG in a pulsating first leg of their quarter-final tie. In a match filled with twists and turns, the Blaugrana defied the odds to take a crucial lead back to Camp Nou.
Raphinha Takes Center Stage
Barcelona started the brighter and their dominance paid off in the first half. Brazilian winger Raphinha was on fire, tormenting the PSG defense.
He opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a clinical finish after a perfectly weighted through ball from Pedri.
Just before halftime, Raphinha doubled Barca’s lead, this time heading home a pinpoint cross from Gavi. The young Barcelona duo were pulling the strings for their resurgent side.
PSG Fight Back But Fall Short
PSG came out with renewed purpose in the second half. The introduction of Kylian Mbappe, who missed the opening period through a slight knock, added a much-needed spark to their attack.
It wasn’t long before they pulled one back. Ousmane Dembele, facing his former club, slotted the ball past his own goalkeeper after a clever assist from Lionel Messi.
The momentum shifted further in PSG’s favor when Vitinha equalized from close range with 20 minutes remaining. The Parc des Princes crowd roared, sensing a comeback.
However, Barcelona had the final say. Substitute Andreas Christensen, with his first touch of the game, nodded home a dramatic winner in the 89th minute to send the traveling fans into ecstasy.
Advantage Barcelona, But Tie Far From Over
This thrilling encounter leaves Barcelona with a narrow advantage going into the second leg at Camp Nou. While Xavi’s men will be buoyed by their performance, they cannot afford any complacency.
PSG, with their attacking firepower, remain a dangerous proposition, especially with Mbappe expected to be fully fit.
The return leg promises to be another enthralling chapter in this historic rivalry. Who will progress to the Champions League semi-finals? Only time will tell.
Read More:
