In the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final, PSG were defeated by Barcelona 3-2 at the Parc des Princes, with Barca taking a one-goal advantage into their home second leg. Despite being behind at half-time, PSG provided a stunning turnaround with two goals in three minutes after the break. However, Barca drew level and completed the turnaround with substitutes Raphinha and Andreas Christensen scoring.
PSG 1st Leg Dominant Display Against Barcelona
During the first leg match, PSG showed dominance in every stat, having a bulk of the possession at 57-43, with 14 shots compared to Barca’s 13. Furthermore, the game saw a masterful display of defense by Barcelona, which managed to limit PSG’s chances throughout the match. Although, Mbapee, who’s scored 39 times in all competitions this season was given little space to run by Braca’s defense.
However, Barcelona’s game plan worked to perfection. They showed professionalism on their display, sending off PSG in Paris for the first time in nine years. With the second leg close, PSG will look to maintain the momentum with sheer determination to secure an away victory.
Growing Optimism for PSG Ahead of Second Leg Clash
After the first leg match, Barcelona Manager Xavi praised his team for their excellent performance, especially on defense. further acknowledging the difficulty of the game, achievements, and PSG’s dominance ahead of their returning fixture. In his words;
“It’s a big win, playing a game away in the Champions League,”
“We did really well but especially in defence, the wingers helped us a lot.
“We created many chances as well, so I’m very happy and proud of the team.
“It will be a tough game in Barcelona because PSG is one of the best teams in Europe right now.
“It’s a new Barca and it’s a small advantage but a big win.”
Meanwhile, PSG Manager Luis Enrique was disappointed with the first leg result but is still optimistic about a better outcome in the returning fixture. While reflecting on his Team’s performance after the first leg match;
“It was a pity because we started the match properly and in a good mood but after the goal, it was disappointing,”
“We started the second half well and could have scored the third one but then conceded the goal.
“We created more chances and the team was in a higher level in the second half.
“We still have the spirit to go to Barcelona and win. We will go there with the best spirit and attitude to win the match.”
With the impressive display from PSG, Luis Enrique’s Men are ready to battle it out at Camp Nou in front of Barca’s fans. Speaking to Movistar, Enrique’s mindset is all out victory;
“We are going to Barcelona to wage war,”
“We are just going to change the things that didn’t work.
Conclusion
Finally, PSG will be looking to overturn the one-goal deficit as they prepare to face Barcelona in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final. Despite having a dominant display in the first leg, they were unable to capitalize on their chances. However, PSG’s manager remains optimistic and believes that his team has the spirit and attitude to win the match. On the other hand, Barcelona will be looking to build on their first-leg victory and progress to the semi-finals.
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Edmund Jaja is a sports enthusiast, Content Writer, Editor, and Storyteller from Nigeria. He’s been a die-hard Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester United fan since the Fergie era, with the zeal and passion to inspire through writing.
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