Paris Saint-Germain let a golden opportunity slip away as Liverpool claimed an unexpected 0-1 victory at the Parc des Princes in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 clash. Despite dominating the match from start to finish and firing 27 shots, PSG failed to score, while a heroic performance from Alisson and a late goal from Harvey Elliott in the 89th minute left Luis Enrique’s side in a difficult position heading into the return leg at Anfield.
PSG started the match with complete control, pinning Liverpool back into their own half. Ousmane Dembélé shone with his ability to create danger, using his speed and technique to generate several opportunities, though the final touch was lacking. PSG, with Kvaratskhelia also causing problems, saw a brilliant goal from the Georgian ruled out for a marginal offside. Meanwhile, Liverpool, struggling to find answers in attack, relied entirely on Alisson, who made a series of crucial saves, including denying Barcola and Kvaratskhelia with spectacular stops.
With 22 shots to just one from the English side by halftime, PSG not only dominated possession but looked the far superior team. Yet, the goal refused to come, and Liverpool remained alive thanks to their goalkeeper.
In the second half, PSG kept pressing for a goal, but the story repeated itself: Alisson was once again the hero, denying any attempt at danger, including a close-range shot from Doué. Luis Enrique made several attacking changes, but despite constant pressure, PSG could not find the breakthrough.
The cruel reality struck in the 88th minute, as Liverpool had barely had a clear-cut chance. Elliott, who had replaced the ineffective Salah, pounced on a loose ball in the area and calmly finished past Donnarumma, who failed to prevent the goal. In the end, Liverpool took a crucial but undeserved 0-1 lead.
PSG had been the superior team for much of the match, but as always, football is not about what’s deserved. Alisson prevented Liverpool from collapsing under pressure, while Donnarumma faltered at the one key moment of the match. Now, PSG faces a nearly impossible task of overturning the deficit at Anfield.
