In the second round of the UEFA Champions League, defending champions Paris Saint-Germain faced Barcelona away from home.
Despite the absence of key players Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia due to injuries, which left the squad shorthanded, Luis Enrique still managed to lead his team to a remarkable comeback, defeating their opponents 2–1.
PSG’s Pre-Match Form and Line-Up
Before this clash, PSG had been in excellent form in Ligue 1, recording five wins and one loss, and had collected 15 points to sit at the top of the standings. Their only defeat came in a 0–1 loss to Marseille.
In this match, PSG deployed a 4-3-3 formation. The attacking trident was made up of Barcola, Mayulu, and Mbaye. In midfield, Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, and the young Warren Zaïre-Emery formed the trio. The backline featured Nuno Mendes, Pacho, Zabarnyi, and Achraf Hakimi, with Chevalier guarding the goal.
Barcelona Strikes First, PSG Fights Back
Barcelona capitalised on its home advantage to press forward early. In the 19th minute, Ferran Torres, assisted by Marcus Rashford, opened the scoring for the hosts.
Despite falling behind, PSG remained composed and quickly found its equaliser. Around the 30th minute, Nuno Mendes produced a brilliant dribble and delivered a pass, which Mayulu calmly finished to level the score. This goal sparked PSG’s momentum, making their attacks more threatening.
Lee Kang-in Denied, Ramos the Hero
In the second half, substitute Lee Kang-in almost gave PSG the lead in the 83rd minute, but his shot struck the post.
PSG did not give up, and in the dying moments of the match, Hakimi broke through on the right flank and delivered a perfect cross. Gonçalo Ramos was on hand to score the decisive goal in the 90th minute, sealing PSG’s comeback victory.
Match Stats and Historical Significance
Statistically, PSG held 53% possession, attempted 15 shots with seven on target, and scored twice. Barcelona, on the other hand, had 12 shots, three on target, and only one goal. Overall, PSG’s performance was superior to Barcelona’s.
Enrique Leading PSG Toward the Champions League Crown
This victory not only earned PSG three crucial points in the standings but also carried historic significance. Paris Saint-Germain became the first team in Champions League history to defeat Barcelona three times in a row at Camp Nou, cementing their reputation as “Barça’s nemesis.”
Under Enrique’s guidance, this depleted PSG side displayed fighting spirit far beyond its paper value and continues to march steadily toward its ultimate goal, the Champions League trophy.
