PSG 0-1 Liverpool: Match report & 3 talking points as Reds snatch European victory

Harvey Elliott’s Late Strike Stuns PSG in Champions League Thriller

Liverpool secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last 16 first leg, thanks to a late goal from Harvey Elliott. Despite dominating the game, PSG were left frustrated by a combination of wasteful finishing, VAR decisions, and Alisson’s goalkeeping heroics.

With this vital away win, Liverpool now hold the advantage heading into the second leg at Anfield next week.

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Match Recap: PSG vs Liverpool

First Half: PSG’s Missed Opportunities and Liverpool’s Lucky Escape

The match began with PSG in full control, pressing Liverpool high and creating several dangerous opportunities. Ousmane Dembélé and Joao Neves tested the Reds early on, setting the tone for a one-sided first half.

PSG thought they had broken the deadlock in the 20th minute when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia finished superbly, but VAR ruled the goal offside by the narrowest of margins.

Liverpool’s defense struggled to cope with PSG’s relentless attacks, and they were fortunate once again in the 25th minute when Ibrahima Konaté avoided a red card after pushing Bradley Barcola to the ground as the last defender.

Despite PSG’s 13 first-half shots, Alisson’s brilliance and some poor finishing kept the score level at 0-0 going into the break.

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Second Half: Liverpool Hold On Before Elliott Strikes Late

The onslaught continued in the second half, with Alisson producing a world-class save to deny Kvaratskhelia’s powerful free kick. PSG remained in control, boasting 70% possession and keeping Liverpool pinned back in their own half.

Despite PSG’s dominance, Liverpool began to find space on the counter-attack. Darwin Núñez was introduced late on, and in the 87th minute, he set up Harvey Elliott, who found the bottom corner with his first touch of the game.

It was a classic smash-and-grab victory for Arne Slot’s side, who now take a precious lead back to Anfield.

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3 Key Talking Points from PSG vs Liverpool

1. Liverpool Survive PSG’s Relentless Attack

Liverpool were completely outplayed for most of the match, with PSG registering 27 shots to Liverpool’s 2. The Reds had an xG of just 0.27, while PSG racked up 1.82 expected goals.

However, VAR decisions, wasteful finishing, and defensive resilience kept them alive. PSG will feel they should have buried the tie in the first leg.

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2. Alisson’s Heroics Keep Liverpool in the Tie

Harvey Elliott might have scored the winner, but Alisson was Liverpool’s true savior. The Brazilian made nine crucial saves, preventing 2.26 expected goals and single-handedly keeping PSG at bay.

His stunning fingertip stops to deny Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue were among the best in the competition this season.

This performance will go down as one of the great Champions League goalkeeping displays.

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3. Kvaratskhelia Shines Despite Defeat

Liverpool fans got a first-hand look at what could have been. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, linked with the club in the past, was PSG’s most dangerous player.

The €70m winger completed 11 touches in Liverpool’s box, registered four shots on target, and created two key chances. He deserved a goal, but Alisson denied him.

With Mohamed Salah’s future uncertain, could Liverpool reignite their interest in Kvaratskhelia this summer?

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What’s Next?

Liverpool return to Anfield for the second leg next Tuesday with a 1-0 advantage. Can they hold off PSG again, or will the French giants complete a comeback?

Drop your predictions in the comments!