After two years of absence, PSG is back in the quarterfinals of the Champions League. Defeating Real Sociedad (2-0) in the first leg, the Parisian club easily won in the Basque Country (1-2) thanks to a stellar performance from Kylian Mbappé. Follow the complete coverage of the Champions League 2023-2024 as PSG embarks on another campaign.
The PSG did not disappoint. Three weeks after their victory over Real Sociedad at Parc des Princes (2-0), Paris Saint-Germain did not falter on Tuesday night in the Basque Country for the return match. Thanks to a brace from Kylian Mbappé (1-2), the Parisians secured their spot in the quarterfinals of the Champions League, a first since 2021. The capital club reclaims a spot in the European Top 8.
Mbappé’s Response
PSG’s place in the quarterfinals was never really in danger from Real Sociedad. More enterprising than in the first leg, Luis Enrique’s men quickly extinguished any hopes of a “remontada” by the hosts. Just 15 minutes into the game, Kylian Mbappé, already a scorer in the first leg, showcased his talent by tricking the Spanish defense with a feint shot and then beating Remiro (0-1, 15′). With a three-goal advantage over the two matches, the capital club then comfortably secured their place.
In the second half, Kylian Mbappé once again showed that he is the superstar of PSG. Just a few months away from his departure, likely a few kilometers south of San Sebastian, the captain for the night (Marquinhos, injured, was on the bench) even scored a brace, perfectly launched into the depth by Kang-in Lee (0-2, 56′). A response to Luis Enrique, who has not hesitated to bench him since his announcement of departure? His 34th goal of the season certainly proves his importance for the French champions.
With both feet in the quarterfinals, PSG then managed the ending of the match and let the Spaniards regain control of the game. They eventually conceded a goal that was imminent just seconds before the final whistle, courtesy of Merino (1-2, 89′). A goal without consequences, as it did not stop the Parisians from celebrating their qualification in the quarterfinals, the seventh since Qatar took over the club. In the next round, Kylian Mbappé and his teammates might face tougher opponents, such as Bayern Munich, their conqueror from last season, who qualified this Tuesday against Lazio Rome (3-0). The answer will be revealed on March 15 during the draw.
Real Sociedad vs. PSG: The live updates have now concluded. Stay tuned for the quarterfinals draw on Friday, March 15 on TF1info.
