In a breathtaking display of resilience, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) overturned a two-goal deficit to defeat Manchester City 4-2 at the Parc de Princes on Wednesday, sending the English giants into a precarious position outside the playoff spots.
Manchester City appeared to have the game under control early on, with substitutes Jack Grealish and Erling Haaland securing a comfortable 2-0 lead in the 50th and 53rd minutes. However, PSG fans witnessing the match in torrential rain were treated to a remarkable turnaround.
PSG's comeback began in the 56th minute when Ousmane Dembele tapped in a cross from Bradley Barcola, narrowing the gap. Barcola quickly responded, leveling the score in the 60th minute after Desire Doue's powerful shot rebounded off the crossbar.
Refusing to relent, PSG took the lead in the 78th minute as Vitinha's free kick was poorly cleared by Manchester City's defense, allowing Joao Neves to head in the opening goal. Goncalo Ramos sealed the victory in stoppage time, completing a stunning 4-2 turnaround.
This win propels PSG to 22nd in the table, while Manchester City, despite their 2023 Champions League triumph, have only secured two wins in seven group games this season, now sitting just below the playoff qualification line at 25th.
With Manchester City facing Belgian side Brugge on January 29, the title race intensifies as the top eight teams automatically advance to the round of 16, while those finishing 9th to 24th enter knockout playoffs for a chance to compete in the next stage.
PSG demonstrated superior performance for the majority of the match, briefly celebrating a goal by Achraf Hakimi before halftime that was disallowed for offside. The English side's initial comeback mirrored their earlier struggles, including a dramatic 3-3 draw with Feyenoord in November after losing a three-goal lead.
As PSG prepares to travel to Stuttgart for their final league phase match, their victory over Manchester City underscores their determination to stay competitive in this season's Champions League.
Reference(s):
PSG surge back to shock Manchester City in UEFA Champions League
cgtn.com
