PSG crashed out of the Champions League after Karim Benzema scored a sensational second-half hat-trick to give his side the win on aggregate. Despite having one of the best squads in the world on paper, the Parisian’s wait for a maiden European title continues.
The Qatari-owned club were convincingly on their way to the quarter finals by the end of the first half. But, everything changed after they conceded the first goal. Karim Benzema stole the ball off of Gianluigi Donnarumma, and it was believed to be a foul.
PSG crumble under pressure
Nasser Al-Khelaifi stormed down to the referee’s room after the game, reportedly shouting ‘I’ll kill you’. . The reason behind this was them not ruling out the first goal for a foul. Mauricio Pochettino and Leonardo had a more composed reaction, but shared the same point of view.
It was individual errors that cost PSG the game later, and some very determined showing from the home team.
Tensions in the club
Neymar and Donnarumma allegedly got involved in a confrontation in the dressing room, with the Brazilian fuming at the goalkeeper for making the error which led to the first goal.
Questions have been asked of Mauricio Pochettino’s future as well, as is the case everytime after PSG are knocked out of the Champions League. However, Leonardo assured the press that the Argentinian was part of the project for the remainder of the season.
MNM fail to deliver
PSG arguably have the best attacking trio in the world, again, on paper. Kylian Mbappe was the best on the pitch during the first half of the second leg. But, he couldn’t be brought into the game after Real Madrid started putting pressure on PSG’s backline.
As a result, this is a prime example of how a good attack is only one part of a good team. A midfield that can supply the frontline, and a defense that can provide stability to the team is equally important. This is something that Real Madrid have understood for years, and what PSG might finally realise now.
