Barcelona Stun PSG with 3-2 Comeback Victory in Champions League Thriller

By Xorkpe Sosu 5 Min Read

Former Leeds United winger Raphinha stole the spotlight as Barcelona triumphed 3-2 in Paris in a thrilling, back-and-forth match.

PSG aimed to start the quarter-final tie positively but fell behind just before halftime when Raphinha scored past Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Raphinha’s brace helped Barcelona secure the win in their Champions League quarter-final first leg.

We're now on WhatsApp. Click here to join.

Barcelona dominated early against the French side, still chasing their first Champions League title, and took the lead with Raphinha’s goal in the 37th minute.

Read Also: Real Madrid and Manchester City deliver thrilling 3-3 draw at Bernabeu

However, a strong start to the second half saw PSG turn the game around with quick goals from former Barcelona player Ousmane Dembele in the 48th minute, with a stunning top-corner strike, and Vitinha, who scored two minutes later.

PSG faced boos as they left the field at halftime in the Parc des Princes, but Luis Enrique’s tactical adjustments led to an immediate turnaround after the break.

Raphinha’s Brace Inspires Barcelona’s Remarkable Turnaround against PSG

Many expected PSG to secure the victory, but a stunning first-time volley from Raphinha leveled the score in the 62nd minute.

Raphinha's Brace Inspires Barcelona's Remarkable Turnaround against PSG

Andreas Christensen then scored with a header from a corner, his first touch after coming on as a substitute 13 minutes from time, giving Barcelona a narrow advantage for the second leg next week.

With less than a week until Luis Enrique returns to Camp Nou, the Spanish boss will need to prepare his team for a crucial match to secure a victory and a chance to qualify for the Champions League semi-finals.

PSG were subdued, and to some extent, fortunate to still be in contention after a lackluster home performance. Kylian Mbappe, set for Real Madrid in the summer, was a mere spectator, while Ousmane Dembele’s goal aside, he was largely missing in action.

Luis Enrique after his side’s defeat

“It was a pity because we started the match properly and in a good mood but after the goal, it was disappointing,” Luis Enrique told TNT Sports.

“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 were 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.”

“We have (Hakimi) back, but it is not just about one player. You have to play as a team and try to overcome Barcelona. We are going to go to Barcelona with the right attitude and commitment to win the match.”

Xavi reflects on his big win

“It’s a big win, playing a game away in the Champions League,” he told TNT Sports.

“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.

“We are just halfway, the game in Barcelona will be tough because Paris Saint-Germain are one of the best teams in Europe right now.”

“We have to be proud (with the young players). Cubarsi is 17, Lamine is 16, Fermin is a new player. Players from La Masia also have more commitment with the team.

“I’m very happy because it’s a new Barca but we are in a good way.”

Barcelona are expected to see out this tie in the second leg, but PSG will be looking for revenge for the unlikely turnaround by the Spaniards in 2017.

Barcelona, though not at their best but left Paris with dreams of a trip to London for the Champions League final.

For team news, transfers, etc, visit our Latest Sports News Page. Follow our Website: On WhatsApp || Twitter || Facebook || Telegram || Townflex || Townflex || YouTube 1 || YouTube 2 || Google News ||

Share This Article