Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured a dramatic advancement to the Champions League quarter-finals, defeating Liverpool 4-1 on penalties after a 1-0 victory at Anfield. Ousmane Dembele’s early goal equalized the aggregate score at 1-1. In the penalty shootout, Gianluigi Donnarumma made crucial saves against Darwin Nunez and Curtis Jones, while PSG converted all their penalties. PSG manager Luis Enrique praised his team’s character, highlighting the dominance they showed in the first leg despite Liverpool’s late winner. Liverpool’s boss, Arne Slot, reflected on their luck running out, emphasizing the fine margins that dictated the outcome of the tie.
Paris Saint-Germain accomplished a remarkable comeback to reach the Champions League quarter-finals at the expense of Liverpool, winning 4-1 on penalties after securing a 1-0 victory in the second leg at Anfield. This defeat marked the first time in Liverpool’s history that they lost a European tie after securing a win in the first leg away from home, as an early goal from Ousmane Dembele leveled the aggregate score at 1-1. PSG flawlessly converted all four of their penalties, while Gianluigi Donnarumma made key saves against Darwin Nunez and Curtis Jones.
Prior to the match, Luis Enrique expressed that the team that emerged victorious would advance to the final, and PSG is now brimming with confidence as they prepare to face either Aston Villa or Club Brugge in the quarter-finals.
“Both teams deserve to progress,” said PSG manager Luis Enrique.
“We were stronger in Paris, and they were superior here, but my squad exhibited remarkable personality and character at Anfield, a truly special venue.”
A memorable triumph for the Parisians was warranted over the tie after they dominated the first leg, only to be thwarted by the outstanding performance of Alisson Becker in goal for Liverpool, until Harvey Elliott clinched a last-minute winner.
This time, it was Liverpool that regretfully failed to capitalize on their opportunities.
“Over 90 minutes, we did not deserve to lose today; over 180 minutes, perhaps it was fair,” remarked Liverpool’s head coach Arne Slot.
“We ran out of luck following last week.”
Exceptional plays from Alexis Mac Allister nearly set the tone with an opportunity just four minutes in when his cross found Mohamed Salah, whose attempt was deflected over by Nuno Mendes.
PSG took ten minutes to weather the initial storm from their opponents before regaining their rhythm.
The visitors drew first blood in the 12th minute when Ibrahima Konate mistakenly redirected Bradley Barcola’s cross past Alisson, leaving Dembele with a straightforward finish.
The French forward has now netted 23 goals in his last 17 appearances and could have easily increased his tally before the night concluded.
PSG had the better chances to broaden their lead before the halftime interval.
On two occasions, Alisson was at his best, sprinting off his line to deny one-on-one situations with both Barcola and Dembele.
Quansah strikes the inside of the post
PSG outmaneuvered Liverpool to secure Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in January, and the Georgian winger proved to be a continuous threat to the Reds’ defense.
Kvaratskhelia’s shot, stemming from a Dembele cross, was heading towards the top corner until a deflection off Ryan Gravenberch sent it just over the bar.
Improved performances in the second half have become a hallmark of Slot’s inaugural season at Liverpool, and the hosts burst out of the blocks after halftime.
Dominik Szoboszlai had an effort ruled out for offside against Luis Diaz earlier in the buildup.
Szoboszlai then had a goalbound shot thwarted by Willian Pacho, before Donnarumma made a crucial save from Diaz following the ensuing corner.
Liverpool’s momentum could have been stymied by the unfortunate loss of Trent Alexander-Arnold to a knee injury after he landed awkwardly.
However, his substitute, Jarell Quansah, was just inches away from sealing the match when his header struck the inside of the post.
PSG offered little threat throughout the second half of regular time, but Liverpool found themselves anxiously hanging on for penalties during extra time.
Lucas Beraldo’s header and Desire Doue’s shot missed narrowly before Alisson again showcased his skills, producing a stunning save to deflect Dembele’s curling shot around the post.
However, Alisson couldn’t rescue them during the shootout, as it was the opposing goalkeeper who emerged as the hero.
Donnarumma made outstanding saves against both Nunez and Jones, while PSG secured their spot in the last eight with confident penalties converted by Vitinha, Goncalo Ramos, Dembele, and Doue.
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