Liverpool secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, despite being under pressure for most of the match. The French champions dominated from start to finish, controlling possession and creating numerous chances, but Alisson Becker’s heroic goalkeeping performance proved to be the difference. The Brazilian shot-stopper produced a series of world-class saves to deny PSG, frustrating their attack and keeping Liverpool in the game.
Harvey Elliott emerged as the unlikely hero, scoring the only goal of the match in the 87th minute with Liverpool’s lone shot on target. The young midfielder had just stepped onto the pitch when he struck, capitalizing on a rare opening for the Reds. His goal stunned the home crowd and shifted the momentum completely, despite PSG’s overwhelming control. The hosts had 27 shots on goal, with 10 testing Alisson, yet they failed to break the deadlock. Their frustration grew even further after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s first-half effort was ruled out for a marginal offside decision.
Liverpool’s resilience was evident throughout the contest, as they absorbed relentless pressure and relied on their defensive structure to weather PSG’s attacks. Alisson’s shot-stopping ability ensured that Arne Slot’s side remained level before Elliott’s late winner. The goalkeeper’s commanding presence, reflexes, and positioning prevented PSG from capitalizing on their numerous opportunities, proving once again why he is regarded as one of the best in the world.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher described the result as “one of the biggest robberies in football,” emphasizing how fortunate the Reds were to leave Paris with a victory. Speaking on CBS Sports, Carragher praised Alisson’s performance, acknowledging that Liverpool had been outplayed but managed to escape with a crucial win. The result gives them a significant advantage heading into the second leg, where they will aim to complete the job in front of their home crowd.
For PSG, the defeat will be a bitter pill to swallow. They controlled large portions of the game, created numerous chances, and seemed poised to take a commanding lead in the tie. However, their inability to convert opportunities into goals ultimately cost them, and they now face an uphill battle at Anfield. The frustration among their players was evident, as they struggled to find a way past Liverpool’s resolute defense and an inspired Alisson.
Liverpool’s ability to grind out results in high-pressure situations has been a hallmark of their recent European campaigns. While they may not have been at their best in Paris, their defensive organization and clinical finishing when it mattered most secured a valuable win. Elliott’s goal may have stolen the headlines, but Alisson’s performance was the true standout, proving once again why he remains an indispensable figure for the Reds.
The second leg at Anfield promises to be an intense encounter, with PSG needing to overturn the deficit to keep their Champions League hopes alive. Liverpool, on the other hand, will look to build on their advantage and use the energy of their home crowd to see the tie through. If Alisson continues his exceptional form, PSG will need to find something special to break down Liverpool’s defense and avoid an early exit from the competition.
