Liverpool took a major step towards the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes. The Reds held firm against intense pressure from the French league leaders before Harvey Elliott struck late to secure an important away win in the first leg of their last-16 tie.
Liverpool vs PSG: Elliott’s Late Strike Stuns PSG
PSG dominated possession and created numerous opportunities, but their finishing let them down. Liverpool, who struggled to impose themselves for much of the game, made their one real chance count. Elliott, coming on as a substitute for Mohamed Salah, netted in the 87th minute with Liverpool’s only shot on target, punishing the hosts for their wastefulness in front of goal.
The home side had 28 attempts but failed to beat Alisson Becker, who produced an inspired performance to keep them at bay. The Brazilian goalkeeper made a series of crucial saves, frustrating a PSG attack that had been prolific in the tournament, scoring 21 goals in their last five Champions League matches.
“It was probably the performance of my life,” Alisson told TNT Sports after his heroics between the posts.
Arne Slot and Luis Enrique React to the Result
Liverpool manager Arne Slot admitted his side rode their luck but praised the team’s resilience. “To go away with a win over here was probably a bit more than we deserved,” he said. “But we defended well and took our chance.”
PSG coach Luis Enrique was left frustrated by his team’s inability to convert their dominance into goals. “We deserved to win clearly, we created a lot of chances,” he remarked. “Football is unfair many times and you have to accept that.”
Advantage Liverpool Heading to Anfield
The result puts Liverpool in a strong position heading into next week’s second leg at Anfield, where they will look to finish the job and book their place in the quarter-finals. If they progress, they could potentially meet Aston Villa in the next round.
Other UEFA Champions League Results
- Bayern Munich Dominate Leverkusen – Bayern Munich secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, with Harry Kane leading the charge by scoring twice. Jamal Musiala also found the net after a goalkeeping error. Leverkusen’s struggles were compounded when Nordi Mukiele received a red card, and Kane converted a penalty to seal the win. Bayern’s triumph was their first against Xabi Alonso’s side in seven matches.
- Barcelona Edge Benfica Despite Early Red Card – Barcelona battled to a 1-0 win over Benfica despite being reduced to 10 men early on after Pau Cubarsi’s red card. Raphinha’s second-half goal gave the Catalans a slim advantage, and coach Hansi Flick praised his team’s resilience in a challenging match.
- Inter Milan Secure First-Leg Advantage Over Feyenoord – Inter Milan claimed a 2-0 away victory over Feyenoord, with Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez finding the net. Despite some early struggles, Inter took control in the second half to strengthen their position ahead of the return leg.
Looking Ahead
With the second-leg ties set to be played next week, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, and Inter Milan will look to build on their first-leg advantages and secure their places in the quarter-finals. Liverpool’s home clash with PSG promises to be a thrilling encounter as they aim to capitalise on their crucial away win.
Related article: UEFA Champions League: Round of 16 and Knockout Playoffs Confirmed
