Liverpool snatched a dramatic 1-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League last-16 clash, thanks to an 87th-minute goal from substitute Harvey Elliott. The young midfielder made an immediate impact, scoring with his very first touch after coming on, in what was Liverpool’s only shot on target throughout the match.
The game had been dominated by PSG, who enjoyed 71% possession and registered 27 shots but failed to break through Liverpool’s stubborn defense. Despite their relentless pressure, the French champions were left frustrated by a combination of wayward finishing, crucial VAR decisions, and an inspired performance from Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker. Elliott’s late winner hands Liverpool a crucial advantage ahead of the second leg at Anfield, where PSG must overturn the deficit to stay in the competition.
Alisson’s Heroics Keep Liverpool Alive
Liverpool had Alisson Becker to thank for keeping them in the contest, as the Brazilian goalkeeper delivered a masterclass in shot-stopping. PSG’s attacking trio of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé, and Kylian Mbappé created numerous chances, but time and again, Alisson was equal to the task, pulling off a string of world-class saves.
One of the standout moments of the match came in the first half when Kvaratskhelia thought he had opened the scoring with a stunning curling effort, only for the semi-automated offside system to rule it out. PSG’s frustration grew further when a strong penalty appeal was waved away by VAR, adding to the sense that luck was not on their side. With Liverpool struggling to get out of their half for long periods, Alisson’s heroics ensured the scoreline remained level before Elliott’s late intervention.
Controversy as Konaté Escapes Red Card
The match was not without controversy, as Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté was fortunate to remain on the pitch following a reckless challenge on PSG’s Bradley Barcola. The French defender appeared to be pushed off balance in a challenge that many believed warranted a red card, but after a brief VAR check, the referee opted not to send Konaté off.
Had Liverpool been reduced to 10 men, PSG’s relentless attacks could have proved too much for the Reds to handle. Instead, the visitors held firm, with Arne Slot’s side defending resolutely under sustained pressure. The decision not to dismiss Konaté only added to PSG’s growing frustration, as they struggled to break down a well-organized Liverpool defense.
Liverpool’s Tactical Discipline Pays Off
Liverpool manager Arne Slot set his team up to absorb pressure and play on the counterattack, but the game plan rarely materialized due to PSG’s dominance. The Reds had little attacking impetus throughout the match, with Mohamed Salah enduring an uncharacteristically quiet night before being substituted.
Instead, Liverpool’s defensive discipline and resilience became the foundation of their unlikely victory. Virgil van Dijk marshaled the backline effectively, while midfielders Alexis Mac Allister and Wataru Endō worked tirelessly to disrupt PSG’s flow. Although Liverpool had just one shot on target all night, their patience paid off when Darwin Núñez outmuscled Marquinhos to set up Elliott, who fired past Gianluigi Donnarumma to seal the smash-and-grab win.
Second Leg Set for Thrilling Showdown at Anfield
With a narrow lead in hand, Liverpool now return to Anfield with a significant psychological advantage, knowing that PSG will need to score at least once to keep their Champions League hopes alive. However, given PSG’s attacking firepower and the dominance they displayed in the first leg, the second leg promises to be a fierce battle.
For PSG, the challenge will be to convert their possession and chances into goals, something they struggled with in Paris. The likes of Mbappé, Dembélé, and Kvaratskhelia will need to be more clinical, while manager Luis Enrique may have to rethink his tactical approach to break down Liverpool’s stubborn defense.
Meanwhile, Liverpool will look to replicate their defensive solidity while aiming for a more cohesive attacking performance at home. With Anfield’s famous European atmosphere behind them, they will hope to finish the job and advance to the quarter-finals. One thing is certain—the second leg will be a must-watch encounter.
