Harvey Elliott’s dramatic late strike secured Liverpool an unlikely 1-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday.
The 19-year-old, who had just replaced Mohamed Salah, made an immediate impact, scoring with his first touch in the 87th minute. Elliott fired home from a Darwin Núñez assist to give the Premier League leaders a crucial advantage heading into next week’s return leg.
The goal was the culmination of a backs-to-the-wall performance by Jürgen Klopp’s side, who had been under intense pressure for much of the match, particularly from a dominant PSG attack. Despite being outshot 28-2, Liverpool’s defense, led by a series of stunning saves from goalkeeper Alisson Becker, managed to keep the home side at bay.
PSG had the better of the first half, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s goal ruled out for offside, and Alisson’s heroics preventing further damage as the Parisians relentlessly pressed forward. “To leave here with a win was probably a bit more than we deserved,” said manager Arne Slot, while Alisson called the performance “the best of my life.”
Salah had been virtually anonymous throughout the match, and Liverpool looked set to fail to score for only the fourth time this season. However, Elliott’s late intervention could prove pivotal as Liverpool heads back to Anfield with a valuable advantage.
If they hold on to their lead, Liverpool will face either Aston Villa or Club Brugge in the quarter-finals, but PSG’s attacking power and resilience suggest they will be formidable opponents in the second leg.
“We would have been more than worthy winners with our performance,” said PSG midfielder Vitinha. “But football is about goals, and we are confident we can win in Liverpool.”
PSG, who came into the match on a 10-game winning streak and with 21 goals from their last five Champions League games, were unable to replicate their usual ruthless form. Their attack, led by Kvaratskhelia, Bradley Barcola, and Ousmane Dembélé, was kept at bay by Alisson and a disciplined Liverpool defense.
Liverpool were missing Cody Gakpo, with Diogo Jota making his first Champions League appearance since October. Despite being under constant pressure, Liverpool’s organized defense held firm, and the late goal ensured they left Paris with an unlikely but crucial advantage.
The game had a tense and tactical feel, with PSG dominating possession (65%) but unable to break down Liverpool’s defense. The match had the hallmarks of a heavyweight encounter, with both teams showing moments of quality, but it was Liverpool’s resilience and clinical finishing that ultimately made the difference.
