Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) stunned Manchester City with a dramatic comeback, winning 4-2 and moving to the competition’s top 24 at the expense of the English champions. The result leaves City needing a victory against Club Brugge next week to secure their place in the knockout stages, though their current form casts doubt over that outcome.
The first half was a cagey affair, with both sides probing for weaknesses but failing to find the net. Manchester City controlled possession in their trademark style, while PSG looked dangerous on the break, with Ousmane Dembélé constantly testing the City defense. Despite some half-chances, the teams went into halftime level at 0-0.
The second half, however, was an entirely different story. City burst out of the blocks, taking the lead in the 50th minute through Jack Grealish. Just three minutes later, Erling Haaland doubled City’s advantage, finishing with characteristic precision to make it 2-0.
Yet, instead of consolidating their lead, City crumbled. PSG responded almost immediately, when Ousmane Dembélé strike past Ederson to reduce the deficit to 2-1. The French side smelled blood, and just three minutes later, Bradley Barcola level the score at 2-2.
City’s defense began to unravel under PSG’s relentless pressure. In the 78th minute, Vitinha delivered an assist to João Neves to stoop low at the back post and head PSG into the lead for the first time in the match. City’s disarray was further compounded ten minutes later when Gonçalo Ramos delivered the final blow. Ramos was played onside after the ball deflected off Josko Gvardiol, and he curled a sensational shot into the top corner, sealing a remarkable 4-2 victory for PSG.
While PSG celebrated moving into the top 24, Manchester City now find themselves in an unexpectedly precarious position. They will host Club Brugge next week in a must-win game, but on the evidence of their current form, a victory is far from guaranteed. City’s defensive frailties, highlighted by their inability to cope with PSG’s attacking intensity, will be a major concern for Pep Guardiola.
