Man City suffer as PSG masterclass sets up Champions League win
Paris Saint-Germain delivered a stunning performance to defeat Manchester City in a seven-goal Champions League thriller at the Etihad Stadium, leaving Pep Guardiola's former side with plenty to reflect on despite a spirited second-half comeback. City, playing their first home match since being found guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules, endured a difficult evening as the reigning European champions took control with a devastating first-half display.
Former City manager Pep Guardiola was among those watching as PSG tore into Enzo Maresca's side, racing into a three-goal lead before the break. Desire Doue opened the scoring in the 13th minute, firing a low effort past Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Just two minutes later, Doue turned provider, delivering an excellent cross that Ousmane Dembele headed home to double PSG's advantage. The visitors continued to exploit City's defensive weaknesses, adding a third in the 32nd minute through Vitinha.
The midfielder finished clinically after an impressive exchange between Maghnes Akliouche and Warren Zaire-Emery, leaving City facing a daunting task. Maresca responded at half-time with three substitutions, and City returned with renewed intensity, creating several opportunities as they attempted to fight their way back into the contest.
Their pressure paid off eight minutes into the second half when Erling Haaland pulled one back with a flicked header from Iliman Ndiaye's cross, giving the home supporters renewed hope. However, PSG restored their cushion in the 62nd minute when Akliouche's effort initially appeared to have been saved by Donnarumma, only for the ball to slip behind the goalkeeper and cross the line.
City refused to surrender, with Haaland completing his brace to keep the hosts in contention. The Norwegian striker came close to adding another, but PSG goalkeeper Matvei Safonov produced an outstanding save to deny him.
There was further late drama when City were awarded a penalty, offering them an opportunity to mount one final challenge. However, Donnarumma redeemed himself by saving Ferran Torres' spot-kick, ensuring PSG held on despite City's late pressure.
The result underlined PSG's attacking quality and ability to punish defensive mistakes, while City's second-half response offered some encouragement after a disappointing opening period. Despite Haaland's brace and City's improved performance after the interval, PSG's first-half dominance proved decisive in an entertaining European encounter.