Paris Saint Germain delivered a spectacular attacking display, demolishing Chelsea 5-2 at the Parc des Princes. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was the hero, scoring two late goals to seal a memorable Champions League victory.
The highly anticipated UEFA Champions League clash saw both teams eager for points. Paris Saint Germain entered the match sitting 4th in their group with 12 points. Chelsea, meanwhile, were a few places behind in 11th, having accrued 10 points.
The hosts wasted no time asserting their dominance. Bradley Barcola opened the scoring in the 10th minute, coolly slotting home after a precise assist from João Neves. The Parc des Princes erupted in celebration as PSG took an early lead.
Chelsea responded with resilience. Malo Gusto pulled one back for the visitors in the 28th minute, converting an opportunity created by Enzo Fernández. The goal briefly silenced the home crowd, leveling the score.
However, PSG quickly regained their advantage. Ousmane Dembélé found the net in the 40th minute, firing past the Chelsea goalkeeper. The French giants headed into halftime with a 2-1 lead, having shown a clinical edge.
The second half promised more drama, with Chelsea needing to find an equalizer and PSG aiming to extend their lead. Both managers likely emphasized tactical adjustments to their squads during the break.
Chelsea started the second period strongly. Enzo Fernández scored his own goal in the 57th minute, ably assisted by Pedro Neto. This brought the Blues level once again, setting up a thrilling final half-hour.
But Paris Saint Germain proved unstoppable in the later stages. Vitinha restored PSG's lead in the 74th minute, tucking away a pass from Kvaratskhelia. The home side’s attacking prowess was on full display.
Kvaratskhelia then took center stage. He extended PSG's lead in the 86th minute with a well-placed finish, assisted by W. Pacho. Not content with that, he added another goal in the 90+4th minute, this time from an Achraf Hakimi delivery, completing his double.
Paris Saint Germain showed clinical finishing, converting 8 of their 9 total shots on target. Despite Chelsea having a higher Expected Goals (xG) of 1.53 compared to PSG's 0.67, the hosts’ efficiency was decisive. PSG also controlled possession with 58% of the ball.
This commanding 5-2 win solidifies Paris Saint Germain's position in the Champions League group. It sends a strong message about their title ambitions, leaving Chelsea with much to ponder on their journey home.
