In a pulsating UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second-leg clash at Anfield, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) edged out Liverpool in a dramatic penalty shootout, securing their spot in the quarter-finals. The match ended 1-0 in favor of PSG after regular time, leveling the aggregate score at 1-1, but the French side triumphed 4-1 in the ensuing shootout.
Liverpool entered the match with a slender 1-0 advantage from the first leg, courtesy of Harvey Elliott’s late strike in Paris.However, PSG started the return leg assertively, with Ousmane Dembélé finding the net in the 12th minute, capitalizing on a swift counter-attack that caught the Liverpool defense off-guard.
The remainder of the match saw both Liverpool and PSG creating numerous opportunities, but neither could alter the scoreline, leading to extra time and eventually penalties. PSG’s goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, emerged as the hero, making crucial saves to deny Darwin Núñez and Curtis Jones, ensuring PSG’s progression.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed his disappointment, acknowledging the team’s improved performance compared to the first leg but lamenting their missed chances. He also confirmed that Trent Alexander-Arnold sustained an ankle injury during the match, ruling him out of the upcoming Carabao Cup final against Newcastle.
PSG’s coach, Luis Enrique, praised his team’s resilience and character, highlighting Donnarumma’s decisive role in the shootout. He emphasized that this victory is just the beginning for PSG, reflecting the team’s ambition to excel in the competition.
For Liverpool, this defeat marks their first penalty shootout loss in the European Cup and the first time they’ve been eliminated after winning the first leg away from home. As they shift focus to domestic competitions, the Reds will need to regroup quickly, especially with the Carabao Cup final looming.
PSG, on the other hand, will carry the momentum from this victory into the quarter-finals, showcasing their determination to secure their maiden Champions League title. The triumph over Liverpool serves as a testament to their growth and aspirations on Europe’s grandest stage.
