Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) came from behind to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Barcelona in a thrilling Champions League clash, marking a strong start to their title defence despite a string of key absences.
Barcelona struck first on Wednesday night, capitalizing on early pressure in the 19th minute. Marcus Rashford delivered a pinpoint pass across the box to Ferran Torres, who timed his run perfectly to beat the offside trap and finish past PSG goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier.
Despite missing several key players—including captain Marquinhos and attacking trio Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Désiré Doué—PSG showed resilience and composure.
The defending champions equalized in the 38th minute when Nuno Mendes weaved past three defenders on a brilliant run down the left and set up 19-year-old Senny Mayulu, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
PSG pushed for a winner in the second half, with substitute Lee Kang-in hitting the post in the 83rd minute.
Their persistence paid off in the 90th minute when Achraf Hakimi led a swift counterattack and crossed for Gonçalo Ramos, who tapped in from close range to seal the win.
Barcelona captain Frenkie de Jong expressed frustration after the defeat: "It’s very disappointing when you concede in the last minute and lose at home. We started well, but they were better in the second half, especially in the final stages.”
The win puts PSG in a strong position as they begin their quest to defend the Champions League crown they won as part of a historic treble last season.
