Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured their spot in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals after a nerve-wracking penalty shootout victory over Liverpool at Anfield. The intense clash, filled with end-to-end action, saw both teams battle fiercely over 120 minutes before Gianluigi Donnarumma’s heroics in goal sealed PSG’s triumph.
Dramatic Night at Anfield
Despite the absence of goals in regular and extra time, the match delivered nonstop drama. Liverpool started on the front foot, with Mohamed Salah creating early chances. However, a defensive mishap between Ibrahima Konaté and Alisson gifted Ousmane Dembélé a golden opportunity, which he calmly converted to level the aggregate score at 1-1.
PSG had chances to extend their lead before halftime, but Alisson produced crucial saves to deny both Dembélé and Bradley Barcola in one-on-one situations. The second half saw Liverpool apply relentless pressure, with Salah nearly equalizing, only for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to make a heroic goal-line clearance.
Extra Time and Penalty Shootout Drama
As extra time unfolded, PSG threatened through Lucas Beraldo and Warren Zaïre-Emery, but Alisson stood firm. The Brazilian goalkeeper pulled off another outstanding save to deny Dembélé, keeping Liverpool’s hopes alive.
With no breakthrough after 120 minutes, the game headed to a tense penalty shootout. Donnarumma emerged as PSG penalty shootout savior, stopping spot-kicks from Darwin Núñez and Curtis Jones. Salah was the only Liverpool player to convert his penalty, but it wasn’t enough as PSG held their nerve to claim victory.
PSG March On
Donnarumma’s brilliance between the posts ensured PSG’s progression, leaving Liverpool heartbroken in front of their home crowd. With this victory, the French giants move one step closer to their elusive Champions League dream.
