Paris Saint-Germain delivered a night to remember at the Parc des Princes as they staged a thrilling comeback to defeat Manchester City 4-2 in a Champions League league phase showdown. After falling 2-0 behind early in the second half, PSG scored four unanswered goals to move into the play-off spots, while City dropped out of the top 24 and now face a perilous situation heading into the final matchday.
The game began under the lights and rain in Paris, with both teams exhibiting high energy and intensity. PSG pressed relentlessly, disrupting City’s rhythm, but despite their dominance in the first half, the hosts failed to capitalize on key opportunities. Achraf Hakimi’s disallowed goal for offside added to their frustration, keeping the scoreline level at halftime.
Pep Guardiola’s tactical adjustments after the break initially turned the game in City’s favor. Substitute Jack Grealish opened the scoring with a clinical finish before assisting Erling Haaland for a second goal moments later. The quick-fire double seemed to deflate PSG and their fervent fans, but Luis Enrique’s side was far from done.
PSG’s response came through the brilliance of Bradley Barcola, whose flair and creativity reignited their charge. Barcola set up Ousmane Dembélé for PSG’s first before scoring the equalizer himself after a high turnover. The momentum shifted dramatically as PSG pinned City back with relentless pressure, with Joao Neves heading in the go-ahead goal and Gonçalo Ramos sealing the victory in stoppage time.
Guardiola’s City, who have struggled without Rodri anchoring their midfield, were exposed once again for their vulnerability under pressure. The team’s inability to hold onto a lead, as seen in recent matches, compounded their woes, with Guardiola’s substitutions failing to arrest the slide. City’s collapse leaves them in a must-win situation against Club Brugge on the final matchday to avoid a shock early exit.
