Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain defeated Barcelona 4-2 in a thrilling Champions League encounter at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday to end the Spanish side’s unbeaten start to the campaign.
PSG dominated the early exchanges, pressing aggressively and creating several opportunities. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia came close to opening the scoring in the second minute, but his effort struck the crossbar.
Barcelona responded with a chance of their own, but Raphinha failed to find the net after being played through by Anthony Gordon.
Barcelona suffered another setback when Ousmane Dembele hobbled off in the first half, with Ferran Torres coming on as his replacement.
Goalkeeper Joan Garcia produced several impressive saves to keep Barcelona in the contest, but he was beaten in the 38th minute when Desire Doue finished a counter-attacking move with a low shot into the bottom-left corner.
PSG goalkeeper Sofanov then denied Fermin Lopez in a one-on-one situation as the hosts went into half-time with a 1-0 lead. Garcia had made eight saves in the first half to limit Barcelona’s deficit.
The visitors drew level 10 minutes after the restart when Xavi Espart scored from close range to make it 1-1.
Barcelona then took the lead in the 72nd minute. After Ferran Torres’ effort struck the crossbar, Hernandez reacted quickly to head home and put the visitors ahead.
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However, PSG responded through Lamine Yamal, who beat Warren Zaire-Emery at the near post before firing past Sofanov to restore parity at 2-2 in the 79th minute.
The hosts regained the lead two minutes later when Vitinha struck a stunning volley into the bottom corner to make it 3-2.
Fabian Ruiz sealed the victory by tapping in Achraf Hakimi’s cross, completing a memorable performance for the French champions.
The result ended Barcelona’s unbeaten start to this season’s Champions League campaign, while PSG extended their winning run to three matches.
Luis Enrique’s side have scored 14 goals and conceded three across their opening three games in the competition.
Barcelona have six points from three matches and will return to Champions League action against Aston Villa on Tuesday, while PSG are scheduled to face Villarreal on the same day.
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