Raphinha spurs Barca fightback to beat PSG
PARIS: Brazil forward Raphinha scored twice to help Barcelona secure a 3-2 win at Paris St Germain in a lively Champions League quarterfinal first leg on Wednesday, earning the Spanish side their first win in the knockout stage in four years.
PSG forward Kylian Mbappe was nowhere to be found in Parc des Princes as five-time European champions Barca managed to neutralise France’s captain, who was often frustrated in his attempts up front.
PSG came into the match unbeaten in their last 27 games in all competitions but were undone by a firedup Barcelona side looking to return the club to the summit of European football.
After a glorious run from 2005-15, winning four Champions League titles, Barca failed to get past the last 16 in Europe’s elite competition in three consecutive seasons after being humiliated 8-2 by Bayern Munich in the 2019-20 quarterfinals.
“We should be proud to say that Barca is alive,” manager Xavi Hernandez said.
“We understood how we had to work against one of the best teams in the world. It’s a small advantage but a victory that generates even more excitement in our city and within our fans.”
Xavi’s side dominated proceedings early on against the French side still looking for a first Champions League crown. Raphinha gave the visitors the lead with a rebound strike in the 37th minute after goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma failed to clear a cross from his box.
Donnarumma looked nervous throughout the match, showing bad timing and making errors that almost led to Barcelona scoring the opener earlier in the first half.
However, PSG looked transformed after the break with manager Luis Enrique, a former Barca player and coach, switching things up and bringing on forward Bradley Barcola for Marco Asensio.
“It was a spectacular night, not only for me, but for the team as well,” Raphinha told reporters.
“We have been working very hard to come out and play like we did, showing our grit with such a good atmosphere is a very positive sign moving forward,” the Brazilian added.