Discover how Gianluigi Donnarumma’s remarkable saves led PSG to eliminate Liverpool in a thrilling UCL Last-16 showdown. Read more about the match highlights.
An Electrifying Night at Anfield
The atmosphere inside Anfield was nothing short of electric as Liverpool hosted Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash. The deafening roars of the home crowd set the tone for an intense battle, with Luis Enrique gesturing frantically for his players to remain composed against Liverpool’s relentless press.
Liverpool started brightly, applying early pressure that forced PSG onto the back foot. A crucial block from Nuno Mendes denied Mohamed Salah a golden opportunity, and Gianluigi Donnarumma’s vocal encouragement to his defenders kept the visitors focused. Salah soon threatened again, embarking on a dazzling solo run before unleashing a curling shot that narrowly missed the far post. See also: Salahs’ Penalty Double Seals Liverpool 3-1 Victory
Paris Strike First Against the Run of Play
Despite Liverpool’s promising start, it was PSG who struck first with their very first attempt on goal. Ousmane Dembélé, in scintillating form, surged forward through the heart of Liverpool’s defense before playing a precise ball to Bradley Barcola. The winger returned the favor, cutting the ball back inside the box, where a fortunate ricochet off Ibrahima Konaté set up Dembélé for an easy finish.
With PSG ahead, the away supporters erupted in jubilation, waving their scarves as their team silenced Anfield. Dembélé’s goal marked his seventh of the 2024/25 Champions League campaign, already surpassing his previous best tally.
A Fierce Battle in the Midfield
The first half saw both sides trading opportunities, with Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai and Virgil van Dijk coming close. PSG, however, remained clinical in their limited forays forward. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia nearly doubled their lead, his curling shot deflecting off Ryan Gravenberch and flashing just over the bar.
Liverpool’s captain, Van Dijk, had spoken about big moments going in their favor in the first leg in Paris. However, as halftime arrived with PSG leading 1-0, it was clear that Slot’s men would need a massive second-half response.
Liverpool Fight Back in the Second Half
As the second half commenced, PSG appeared more composed in possession, yet Liverpool refused to let them settle. Luis Díaz came close after dazzling footwork inside the penalty box, while Nuno Mendes and Carlos Pacho made crucial blocks to keep the Reds at bay.
Paris’ 19-year-old substitute, Désiré Doué, made an immediate impact, showcasing skillful footwork against Trent Alexander-Arnold. However, despite PSG’s attacking intent, Liverpool’s defense, led by Van Dijk and Konaté, held firm.
A Tense Final Stretch and Extra Time Drama
As the match entered its final ten minutes, Liverpool continued to push forward, dominating possession and creating chances. PSG’s goalkeeper Donnarumma was the hero of the night, making several crucial saves, including a stunning stop to deny Dembélé’s curling effort inside the box.
With neither team able to find a winner in regulation time, the match entered extra time. PSG threatened early, with Lucas Beraldo heading just wide following a short corner routine. Liverpool, fatigued but determined, pressed forward but lacked the cutting edge to beat Donnarumma.
Both teams appeared cautious, understanding the immense stakes. With just minutes remaining, Alisson Becker produced a world-class save to tip Dembélé’s shot around the post, ensuring the game would be decided by penalties.
A Penalty Shootout for the Ages
As the players gathered for the shootout, the tension was palpable. PSG’s Hakimi and Liverpool’s Van Dijk exchanged words with the referee, while Donnarumma and Alisson prepared for the ultimate test of nerves.
Paris struck first from the spot, with Gonçalo Ramos calmly finding the corner. Salah responded with a composed finish to level the scores at 1-1. Then came the turning point—Donnarumma guessed correctly, diving to his right to deny Darwin Núñez, giving PSG the advantage.
Dembélé extended PSG’s lead with an unstoppable strike before Donnarumma once again came up big, denying Curtis Jones. With PSG leading 3-1, the final kick fell to 19-year-old Doué, who showed remarkable composure to seal the victory. His winning penalty sent PSG into the quarter-finals, sparking wild celebrations among the traveling fans.
Donnarumma the Hero, PSG March On
PSG’s dramatic 4-1 penalty shootout triumph over Liverpool secured their place in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Despite Liverpool’s dominance in possession and attacking stats, Donnarumma’s heroics, combined with clinical finishing from the spot, proved decisive.
For Liverpool, the heartbreak of another Champions League exit will sting. Yet, their spirited performance and tactical discipline under Slot suggest a bright future ahead.
As PSG march on, their fans will dream of European glory. With Dembélé in top form and Donnarumma standing as a near-impenetrable wall, this team looks set to challenge for the ultimate prize.