Paris has control, or almost, in this first leg of the Champions League quarterfinal. Superior in the game, the Parisians defeated Liverpool (2-0) on Wednesday at Parc des Princes, taking a serious advantage, as logical as it is deserved, before the return at Anfield next Tuesday.
The message was displayed in the stands, and it was heard on the field. Behind a tifo calling to “wake up Hulk,” PSG started their quarterfinal as a strong block, suffocating Liverpool from the start, organized with five defenders and unable to leave their half of the field.
With overwhelming possession in the first quarter of an hour, Luis Enrique’s men applied constant pressure. Initially clumsy on a first attempt (9th minute), Doukouré then found his target: he turned and struck with his right foot. Deflected by Gravenberch, his attempt lobbed Giorgi Mamardashvili and hit the bar (1-0, 11th minute).
Continuing the pressure, Paris maintained momentum without immediately scoring another goal. Launched at the end of a smooth collective action, Dembelé notably missed the opportunity to widen the gap (43rd minute), before missing the target from close range after the break (53rd minute).
Liverpool Ineffective
Liverpool, on the other hand, was silenced for a long time, deprived of offensive solutions, like Mohamed Salah, who was left on the bench. It took until the 49th minute to see the first attempt, a shot from the French striker Hugo Ekitike.
Without consequences for the Parisians, who continued to dominate. Despite past inefficiencies this season, they this time were able to capitalize on their opportunities. Released on a break, Kvaratskhelia showcased solo skills, resisting Gravenberch and eliminating Mamardashvili before concluding into an empty net (2-0, 66th minute). The Georgian scored his eighth Champions League goal this season, confirming his taste for big games.
Dembelé Hits the Post
Despite a penalty initially awarded then overturned after VAR intervention (70th minute), PSG maintained control over the game.
With 74% possession and clear superiority in chances (18 shots to 3), Luis Enrique’s men dominated the match from start to finish. Ousmane Dembélé, once again, hit the post towards the end of the match (87th minute), symbolizing an evening where the PSG player made an impact, without always being rewarded. Before the return to Anfield on Tuesday, PSG has taken a comfortable lead and can aspire to a double.
