Paris Saint-Germain snatched a dramatic late win over Aston Villa in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash, thanks to a stoppage-time goal from Nuno Mendes at the Parc des Princes.
Nuno Mendes of Paris Saint Germain celebrates scoring his team third goal
Villa Strike First—but Can’t Hold It
Morgan Rogers opened the scoring in the 35th minute for Aston Villa, finishing off a fast break with a tidy goal at the far post after a cross from Youri Tielemans.
The away section erupted, joined by none other than the Prince of Wales, who was in attendance to support the Premier League side.
PSG Respond with Flair and Firepower
Just four minutes later, Desire Doue hit back with a stunning 20-yard curler that left Villa keeper Emiliano Martinez with no chance.
PSG’s momentum continued into the second half.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the electric Georgian winger, put the hosts ahead just after the break with a rocket at the near post, after spinning past defender Axel Disasi.
Martinez Stands Tall—Until the Final Blow
Despite being the villain in France for his role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup win, Martinez delivered a string of top-class saves to keep Villa in the game.
But in the dying seconds of stoppage time, Nuno Mendes broke through, catching Martinez wrong-footed with a sharp finish that sealed a 3–1 win for PSG.
What This Means for the Second Leg
Villa now faces an uphill battle at Villa Park. Instead of needing just one goal to turn the tie around, Unai Emery’s side must chase at least a two-goal swing to keep their Champions League dream alive.
Key Takeaways
PSG lead the quarter-final tie 3–1 going into the return leg.
Villa showed fight but were undone by PSG’s quality in key moments.
The second leg promises high drama as Villa look to mount a comeback on home turf.