Barcelona Edge Past PSG in Thrilling Champions League Encounter
Barcelona Triumphs in Paris
April 16, 2024 - Barcelona's resurgence under Xavi continued on Wednesday night as they secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie.
Key Moments
Ousmane Dembélé gave Barcelona the lead after just 10 minutes, but Kylian Mbappé equalized for PSG just four minutes later. Lionel Messi restored Barcelona's advantage from the penalty spot in the 27th minute, before Neymar leveled the scores once again on the stroke of halftime.
The second half saw both teams trade blows, but it was Barcelona who struck the decisive blow in the 75th minute. Pedri's cross found Jordi Alba, who slotted the ball home to give Barcelona a crucial away victory.
Preview and Analysis
The match was a closely contested affair, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess. Barcelona dominated possession and created the better chances, but PSG were always dangerous on the counterattack.
Barcelona's victory gives them a slight edge heading into the second leg at the Camp Nou on April 23. However, PSG will still fancy their chances of overturning the deficit, especially with Mbappé in their ranks.
Team News and Match Information
Barcelona XI: Ter Stegen; Alba, Araujo, Pique, Dest; Pedri, Busquets, De Jong; Dembélé, Messi, Fati
PSG XI: Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Ramos, Nuno Mendes; Verratti, Danilo, Vitinha; Mbappé, Messi, Neymar
Attendance: 48,828
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