Match Report: Liverpool Leave it Late to Stun PSG in Dramatic Champions League Clash | OneFootball

Liverpool Stun PSG in UEFA Champions League Last-16 Clash

Paris Saint-Germain were left bewildered at the Parc des Princes as Liverpool snatched a late 1-0 victory in their UEFA Champions League last-16 first-leg encounter. In a match where PSG dominated almost every statistic, a single moment of ruthlessness from Liverpool proved decisive.

Harvey Elliott, fresh off the bench, delivered the killer blow in the 87th minute, turning in a precise pass from Darwin Núñez with his very first touch. It was a goal that left Luis Enrique’s side in disbelief—especially given their overwhelming control of the game.

Photo: IMAGO

PSG Dominate but Fail to Find the Breakthrough

From the outset, PSG were on the front foot, imposing themselves on a Liverpool side that struggled to gain a foothold. The French champions unleashed a relentless attacking display, amassing 27 shots and forcing Alisson into nine saves. The Brazilian goalkeeper delivered a masterclass, keeping Liverpool in the contest almost single-handedly.

Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia were electric, causing havoc for the Liverpool defence. The latter even had the ball in the net in the first half, only for VAR to intervene and correctly rule him offside.

Despite their dominance, PSG lacked a clinical edge. Their inability to convert opportunities allowed Liverpool to hang on—something that would ultimately prove costly.

Controversial VAR Decision Adds to PSG’s Frustration

While the Parisians will rue their missed chances, they will also feel hard done by after a contentious VAR decision. Ibrahima Konaté appeared fortunate to escape a red card after shoving Bradley Barcola just outside the penalty area. The challenge, which looked reckless, was reviewed but deemed unworthy of dismissal—a decision that sparked fury from the PSG bench.

Had the call gone differently, the match might have taken a completely different turn. But on nights like these, fine margins make all the difference.

Liverpool’s Resilience Sets Up Anfield Showdown

For Liverpool, this was a classic away performance—soaking up pressure, riding their luck, and delivering a sucker punch when the opportunity arose. Arne Slot’s side will now return to Anfield with a slender but potentially crucial advantage.

The second leg next Tuesday promises to be a high-stakes affair. PSG will need to find a way past a Liverpool defence that, despite being under siege in Paris, emerged unscathed. The French giants have the firepower, but Liverpool’s resilience and European pedigree make them formidable opponents in knockout football.

As the UEFA Champions League drama unfolds, one thing is certain: this tie is far from over.