Liverpool Stun PSG With Late Smash-And-Grab Victory.
Liverpool pulled off one of the most dramatic smash-and-grab victories in Champions League history, snatching a late 1-0 win against Paris Saint-Germain in their last-16 first-leg encounter.
Despite being under relentless pressure for most of the match, Jurgen Klopp’s side managed to escape the Parc des Princes with a crucial advantage. PSG dominated proceedings with 27 shots on goal, but Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker produced a masterclass, making nine crucial saves to keep the hosts at bay.
The home side looked certain to break the deadlock, with Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia proving unplayable at times. Kvaratskhelia even had the ball in the net in the first half, only for VAR to rule the goal out for offside. PSG’s frustrations grew when VAR again sided with Liverpool, controversially allowing Ibrahima Konaté to remain on the pitch despite a shove on Bradley Barcola just outside the box.
With the match seemingly destined to end goalless, Liverpool struck against the run of play in the 87th minute. Harvey Elliott, brought on moments earlier to replace Mohamed Salah, made an immediate impact by converting a precise pass from Darwin Núñez with his first touch.
The goal stunned the PSG players and fans alike, leaving manager Luis Enrique frustrated at how his side failed to convert their dominance into goals.
Liverpool will now take their slender advantage into the second leg at Anfield next Tuesday, knowing that PSG will be desperate to overturn the deficit.
