Liverpool 0-1 PSG (1-4 pens): Donnarumma Saves Two as Reds Exit Europe | OneFootball

Liverpool Exit Champions League as PSG Triumph in Penalty Shootout

Liverpool’s Champions League journey came to a bitter end as Paris Saint-Germain knocked them out in a tense penalty shootout at Anfield. Holding a 1-0 lead from the first leg, Arne Slot’s side were unable to capitalise on their advantage, with Ousmane Dembélé’s early goal levelling the tie before Gianluigi Donnarumma’s heroics in the shootout secured PSG’s place in the quarter-finals.

Trent Alexander-Arnold of Liverpool and William Pacho Paris Saint-Germain Liverpool v Paris Saint-Germain, UEFA Champions League, Round of 16, Second Leg, Football, Anfield, Liverpool, UK – 11 Mar 2025 EDITORIAL USE ONLY No use with unauthorised audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or live services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxHUNxGRExMLTxCYPxROUxBULxUAExKSAxONLY Copyright: xRyanxBrowne/Shutterstockx 15188180bc

The Premier League leaders threw everything at the French side, particularly in the second half, but their lack of cutting edge in front of goal proved costly. PSG, showing maturity under Luis Enrique, defended resolutely before taking control in extra time and holding their nerve when it mattered most.

Early Mistake Gives PSG the Edge

Liverpool started the match with high intensity, looking to extend their aggregate lead in front of an expectant Anfield crowd. Mohamed Salah twice went close in the opening minutes, but his efforts were well handled by the PSG defence.

However, despite their fast start, Liverpool fell behind in the 12th minute due to a defensive lapse. Bradley Barcola’s low cross into the area seemed harmless, but a mix-up between Alisson and Ibrahima Konaté created an opportunity for Dembélé, who capitalised with a simple tap-in at the goal line.

The visitors, full of confidence after their early goal, continued to look dangerous on the counter-attack. Alisson was forced to make a crucial save when Dembélé broke through again, while Khvicha Kvaratskhelia squandered a good chance, failing to hit the target from a promising position. Liverpool, shaken by the early setback, struggled to impose themselves for the remainder of the half, finding PSG’s defensive shape difficult to break down.

Liverpool’s Pressure Fails to Deliver a Breakthrough

After the interval, Liverpool came out with renewed urgency, determined to tilt the tie back in their favour. Luis Díaz was a constant threat on the left, while Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister looked to dictate play from midfield. However, PSG remained disciplined, allowing Liverpool possession but limiting clear-cut opportunities.

As the game wore on, Liverpool’s best chances began to arrive. A powerful header from Díaz forced Donnarumma into an outstanding save, clawing the ball away just when it seemed destined for the net. Moments later, substitute Jarell Quansah struck the post, coming agonisingly close to putting Liverpool back in front.

There was a moment of hope when Szoboszlai found the net, but celebrations were cut short as the offside flag was raised. Liverpool continued to press forward, but with time running out, PSG’s resilience ensured the game moved into extra time.

PSG Dominate Extra Time Before Shootout Drama

With the match hanging in the balance, PSG looked the stronger side in extra time. Liverpool, having expended so much energy trying to find a goal, began to tire, and Alisson was called into action once again to deny Dembélé a second goal with a stunning reflex save.

Despite PSG’s dominance in the additional 30 minutes, neither side could find a decisive breakthrough, leading to a penalty shootout under the lights at Anfield. Winning the coin toss, PSG chose to take penalties in front of their travelling supporters, adding to Liverpool’s challenge.

Donnarumma, who had already played a key role in keeping Liverpool at bay during the game, was the hero of the shootout. He denied Darwin Núñez and Curtis Jones, with both players seeing their efforts saved. At the other end, Desire Doue stepped up and converted the winning penalty, sparking celebrations among PSG’s squad and travelling fans.

What This Means for Liverpool and PSG

For Liverpool, this defeat marks the end of their Champions League hopes, but the Premier League title remains firmly within their grasp. Sitting comfortably at the top of the table, Arne Slot’s men must now refocus their attention on domestic success, ensuring this European setback does not derail their momentum.

For PSG, this result represents a statement of intent. Often criticised for their struggles in the latter stages of the Champions League, Luis Enrique’s side showed composure, resilience, and maturity to overcome one of the tournament favourites. With their place in the quarter-finals secured, they now set their sights on progressing further in pursuit of their first Champions League trophy.

Anfield has witnessed many famous European nights, but this time, it ended in disappointment for the hosts. As Liverpool look ahead to the remainder of the season, their challenge will be to use this setback as motivation for the silverware still within reach.