Champions League: Kylian Mbappe strikes late to give PSG the Advantage over Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappe’s spectacular stoppage-time goal lifted Paris St-Germain to a 1-0 victory against 13-time Champions League champions Real Madrid in the first leg of their last-16 contest.
The France striker, who was linked with a summer move to Real Madrid, gathered the ball on the left after Neymar’s superb backheel and raced between two defenders inside the area before shooting past Thibaut Courtois’ legs to send the Parc des Princes into raptures.
It was a thrilling conclusion to a game that appeared destined to end in frustration for PSG, even more so after Lionel Messi’s penalty attempt was saved shortly after the hour mark.
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The hosts dominated possession but were unable to break down a well-organized Real defense that had limited PSG to a single attempt on target in the first half when Mbappe saw a shot blocked by Courtois’ legs.
However, the introduction of Neymar, who made his first game since November following his injury recovery, proved vital. He created multiple issues for Real with his dangerous crosses and deft runs before supplying the critical pass for Mbappe to do his miracle with seconds remaining.
The victory gives PSG confidence that they can travel to Madrid on Wednesday, 9 March, and secure the result necessary to keep their Champions League title aspirations alive.
