In a thrilling Champions League quarterfinal first leg, Barcelona emerged victorious over Paris Saint-Germain with a 3-2 triumph at Parc des Princes. Trailing 2-1, Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández’s tactical substitutions proved decisive.
Midfielder Pedri, introduced in the 61st minute, set up Raphinha for the equalizer within a minute. Two minutes later, central defender Andreas Christensen headed home from a corner to give Barcelona the lead.
Raphinha, who opened the scoring in the first half, was Barcelona’s standout performer. His lively display contrasted with a lackluster performance from PSG’s Kylian Mbappé.
PSG had taken the lead in the second half through Vitinha, but Barcelona’s resilience and clinical finishing proved too much.
In the other quarterfinal, Atlético Madrid defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-1 at home. Rodrigo De Paul and Samuel Lino scored for Atlético, while Sébastien Haller netted a late consolation for Dortmund.
The return legs of both quarterfinals will be played next Tuesday. Barcelona will host PSG in Spain, while Dortmund will welcome Atlético to Germany.
