PSG 4-2 Barcelona: European giants play out classic as Hansi Flick's side handed first defeat of the season News
Barcelona were handed their first defeat of the season as they lost 4-2 to Paris Saint-Germain in a Champions League classic. In a game that saw a total of 40 attempts on goal, it was the reigning European champions who were able to outgun the visitors in a contender for match of the season.
The pair traded goals, with Desire Doue's strike and Lucas Hernandez's header each being cancelled out courtesy of youngster Xavi Espart and the irrepressible Lamine Yamal. Seconds after Barca's number 10 levelled things for a second time, Vitinha restored PSG's lead as Barcelona ran out of gas.
Fabian Ruiz put the icing on the cake five minutes later with a tap-in as Hansi Flick side tasted defeat for the first time in 12 games this season. There were some sour notes on an otherwise exhilarating evening.
Ballon d'Or holder Ousmane Dembele came off with a suspected hamstring injury inside the opening 20 minutes. Team-mate Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was also helped off in the second half after picking up a knock.
Dani Olmo was also withdrawn in the first half for Barcelona, who are already struggling with an injury crisis. It adds another blow for the LaLiga leaders, who visit Real Madrid in the first El Clasico of the season on Sunday.
Key moments from a classic at the Parc des Princes… 2: POST! Kvaratskhelia smashes the woodwork in less than 120 seconds.
Ballon d'Or holder Dembele comes off with suspected hamstring issue. Image: Ousmane Dembele came off with a suspected hamstring injury inside 20 minutes 38: GOAL!
Doue finally puts PSG ahead after Lamine Yamal mistake. Image: PSG's Desire Doue celebrates opening the scoring 55: GOAL!
Image: Barcelona youngster Xavi Espart equalised early in the second half 59: INJURY! Kvaratskhelia is helped off the pitch on the hour.