On Tuesday, April 16, PSG achieved an unexpected feat by qualifying for the semi-final of the Champions League. They secured their victory against FC Barcelona in the quarter-final second leg with a remarkable score of 4 goals to 1.
In total, PSG scored 6 goals while Barcelona managed 4. This victory resulted from the tremendous effort put in by Kylian Mbappé and his teammates, especially after the first leg last Wednesday where PSG lost 3-2.
The match started on a rather challenging note for the Parisians as they conceded a goal from Raphinha in the 12th minute.
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PSG had a lot to do to turn the game around and secure their place in the semi-finals. They needed to score at least one goal to force extra time and two goals to ensure qualification.
Despite the setback, PSG had several opportunities to score during the first half-hour of play. Notably, a shot from Lewandowski in the 20th minute could have sealed the match, but unfortunately, it was off target.
Kylian Mbappé, who had been relatively quiet during the first leg, raised hopes in the 27th minute with a shot that Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen ultimately stopped.
The tide began to turn in PSG’s favour with the expulsion of Araujo, which gave them a numerical advantage. In the 39th minute, Ousmane Dembelé scored a goal, putting pressure on Barcelona and giving PSG the upper hand in the match.
However, at halftime, PSG still needed one more goal to have a chance at overtime (1-1/4-3).
The second half of the match was a display of PSG’s dominance, with numerous chances to score. First, Hakimi had a shot deflected by the Barcelona goalkeeper, followed by a strike from Fabian Ruiz that narrowly missed the goal.
In the 54th minute, a well-executed corner allowed Vitinha to score, further solidifying PSG’s lead.
The frustration of the Barcelona team was evident when their coach, Ronald Koeman, was expelled from the match. PSG took full advantage of their numerical superiority and scored a penalty in the 60th minute, with Mbappé converting after a red card was given to João Cancelo.
Despite a close call with a strike from Lewandowski in the 73rd minute, PSG’s dream remained alive thanks to goalkeeper Donnarumma’s save and Marquinhos’ clearance.
The final minutes of the match tested the Parisians’ nerves as they struggled to maintain control of the ball. However, Mbappé managed to secure PSG’s victory with a fourth goal in the 89th minute, sealing their qualification for the semi-finals.
With this remarkable victory, PSG now sets their sights on the semi-final match against Dortmund on April 30. The team has shown great determination and resilience throughout the Champions League campaign.
