After years of coming up short in the UEFA Champions League and suffering some of the most painful defeats the game has ever seen, Paris Saint-Germain finally delivered on the big stage to reach the semi-finals.
On this episode of PSG Talking, I recap PSG’s come-from-behind win over FC Barcelona. From Luis Enrique’s starting lineup, to a controversial referee decision, to Kylian Mbappé’s performance, I cover all the major incidents over the 90 minutes.
I begin with PSG’s starting lineup, which featured an all-French front three of Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and Bradley Barcola. After the first match where fitness issues and suspensions for Luis Enrique to adjust his lineup, the manager bounced back and played the ideal starting XI.
Next, I address Ronald Araújo’s red card after taking down Barcola as he sprinted toward Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Did the referee make the right decision, or does Xavi and Barcelona supporters have a fair argument?
After the sending-off, Dembélé took advantage and converted a Barcola cross for his second goal of the tie. I talk about his performance and how important his goal before halftime was for Les Parisiens.
In the second half, PSG continued the offensive onslaught, and Vitinha eventually got on the scoresheet with a blast from distance. I discuss his performance and why you could make the argument that behind Mbappé, he’s been PSG’s most important player this season.
With the tie level on aggregate, it was time for Mbappé to take over and get PSG across the finish line. I talk about his two goals to put PSG comfortably in the lead. Could the Frenchman be thinking twice about leaving for Real Madrid?
After the final whistle, PSG celebrated in front of the traveling supporters. I discuss how proud I am of the team’s performance and look ahead to the semi-final tie against Borussia Dortmund.
As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Substack! Subscribe for free today to access premium PSG content.
