PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma played a crucial role in keeping Villa at bay, saving a strike from Pau Torres at a tight angle
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) booked their spot in the UEFA Champions League semifinals, advancing 5-4 on aggregate despite a 3-2 defeat in the quarterfinal second leg against Aston Villa. Early goals by Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes were enough to see PSG through after last week’s 3-1 win in Paris.
Villa started the game aggressively, quickly earning two corners within the first four minutes as they sought a comeback. However, their attacking approach left them vulnerable to PSG’s counterattacks, and the visitors capitalized on the space. A brilliant pass from Mendes to Bradley Barcola allowed the winger to cross for Hakimi, who finished with precision past Villa keeper Emiliano Martínez.
PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma played a crucial role in keeping Villa at bay, saving a strike from Pau Torres at a tight angle. Nuno Mendes then completed a counterattack with a powerful finish, striking the post for PSG’s second. Villa responded with a goal of their own, as Youri Tielemans’ curling effort deflected off Willian Pacho and found the back of the net. Villa captain John McGinn soon scored with a long-range shot that looped over Donnarumma. The Italian keeper was at full stretch moments later to deny Marcus Rashford’s shot from distance.
Villa continued to press, and their efforts paid off when Ezri Konsa scored a well-taken third goal after a brilliant assist from Rashford. Tielemans nearly drew Villa level on aggregate, but Donnarumma produced a spectacular save, denying a powerful header. Marco Asensio, on loan from PSG, also tested Donnarumma, but the Paris keeper made another incredible stop with his legs.
In the final minutes, Villa came close again, with Ian Maatsen’s volley blocked by Pacho, ensuring PSG held on. Despite the tense finish, Luis Enrique’s team kept their composure and secured progression to the semifinals, ending Villa’s memorable Champions League debut.
After the match, PSG manager Luis Enrique reflected on the win, saying, “I’m not going to forget this match in a long time. It was difficult to play away, and we made mistakes, but this experience will help us grow.”
