Paris Saint-Germain produced a commanding display to secure a 2-0 victory over Liverpool in their Champions League quarter-final first-leg clash on Wednesday, putting themselves in a strong position ahead of the return fixture at Anfield.
The breakthrough came early when Desire Doue found the net in the 11th minute. His effort took a significant deflection off Ryan Gravenberch, looping over goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili and into the net.
The Parisians continued to dictate the pace of the game, and their dominance paid off again midway through the second half.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia doubled the advantage in the 65th minute after a composed finish, rounding his compatriot Mamardashvili before slotting the ball home. PSG controlled proceedings from start to finish and could have extended their lead further, even seeing a second-half penalty decision overturned following a VAR review.
“I think we had chances to score more. There were many moments where we should score but it is OK,” Kvaratskhelia said after the match.
“I think 2-0 is good but we have to stay focused because we have to play at Anfield. We know that the atmosphere will be amazing so we are already starting to prepare that game.”
The result marks another setback for Liverpool, who have now endured a difficult run of form. Despite avoiding a heavier defeat compared to their recent 4-0 loss to Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals, the Reds have now managed just one win in their last six matches across all competitions, with this defeat marking their 16th loss of the season.
Under Arne Slot, Liverpool adopted an unusual tactical setup, deploying three central defenders—an approach rarely seen during his tenure. However, the system failed to contain PSG’s relentless attacking pressure, as the English side spent much of the match chasing possession.
Liverpool now face a daunting challenge in the second leg, hoping to replicate their last-16 comeback against Galatasaray, where they overturned a first-leg deficit with a dominant home performance. This time, however, the task appears significantly tougher against a confident PSG side.
The French champions, who previously edged past Liverpool in last season’s knockout stage, showed once again why they remain one of Europe’s most formidable teams.
Notably, Liverpool were without key figures in the starting lineup. Mohamed Salah was left on the bench, while Alexander Isak was also among the substitutes despite returning from injury. In attack, Hugo Ekitike led the line against his former club but struggled to make an impact.
PSG dominated possession throughout the match, controlling nearly 70 percent in the first half alone. Doue’s deflected opener set the tone, and despite Mamardashvili making several saves to keep the scoreline respectable, Liverpool rarely threatened.
The second goal came after a precise pass from Joao Neves split the defence, allowing Kvaratskhelia to surge forward, shrug off his marker, and calmly finish.
Liverpool were briefly handed a reprieve when a penalty awarded to PSG was overturned after review, but the visitors failed to capitalize on the momentum. Late in the match, Ousmane Dembele struck the post, underlining PSG’s continued dominance.
With a two-goal cushion and home advantage secured in the first leg, PSG now head to England firmly in control of the tie and brimming with confidence as they chase further Champions League success.
What you should know
Paris Saint-Germain’s dominant 2-0 win over Liverpool gives them a strong advantage heading into the second leg at Anfield.
The French side controlled possession, created more chances, and could have scored additional goals. Liverpool’s recent poor form continues, with just one win in six matches, raising concerns about their consistency. Tactical changes, including a rare three-man defense and leaving key players like Mohamed Salah on the bench, did not yield results.
PSG now look well-positioned to advance, but Liverpool’s history of comebacks means the tie is not completely decided yet.
