PSG Stun Barcelona 4-2 in Champions League as French Giants End Spanish Side's 11-Game Winning Run
France: Paris Saint-Germain handed Barcelona their first defeat of the season with a dramatic 4-2 victory in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday. Playing at the Parc des Princes in Paris, the French champions scored twice in the closing stages to end Barcelona's 11-game winning streak and claim their third consecutive win in the competition.
Before kick-off, footage showed both teams arriving at the stadium. PSG players Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, alongside manager Luis Enrique, greeted young club mascots ahead of the highly anticipated match.
The contest delivered an entertaining exchange of goals, with both sides repeatedly finding ways back into the game before PSG pulled away late. Desire Doue opened the scoring for PSG in the 38th minute, giving the hosts an advantage before half-time.
Barcelona responded after the break through 19-year-old Xavi Espart, who brought the visitors level. PSG then regained the lead when Lucas Hernandez rose to score with a powerful header.
However, Barcelona refused to back down. Lamine Yamal produced an impressive solo effort to make it 2-2, setting up a tense finish.
Late Goals Seal PSG Victory With the match finely balanced, PSG stepped up their attacking pressure in the closing stages. Vitinha put the hosts ahead with a superb half-volley before Fabian Ruiz added another late goal to complete the 4-2 victory.
The result gave PSG nine points from their opening three Champions League matches, strengthening their position in the competition's early standings. Defender Lucas Hernandez praised his team's defensive organisation and attacking quality after the match.
"We knew it wasn't going to be an easy game, but if we stayed close to them defensively and were aggressive, we have the quality up front to make the difference at any moment," he said. His comments highlighted PSG's approach of remaining disciplined at the back while taking advantage of opportunities in attack.
Barcelona Remain Confident Despite Defeat Despite the loss, Barcelona defender Gerard Martin said the team had performed well and remained focused on its season objectives. "I think we competed really well."