There were a number of noteworthy highlights that occurred at the conclusion of the goal-filled contest between Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona.
There is no sign of Mbappe.
Kylian Mbappe was killed by the attack of Paris Saint-Germain in the match that was considered to be the most significant of the season. Despite playing on the left flank, Mbappe was only able to successfully dribble one-fourth of the time, which prevented him from developing his ability to cut the ball into the middle of the field.
In addition, the man who had previously played for AS Monaco did not produce any shots that were on target. Additionally, he only won three out of twelve balls that were contested. Additionally, number 7 was unable to maintain possession of the ball thirteen times. In spite of the fact that he played for the full 90 minutes, the French attacker was entirely harmless.
2. Hats off to Cubarsi
The fact that Xavi Hernandez is beginning to have faith in Pau Cubarsi, who is only 17 years old, is not a simple coincidence. This young midfielder was responsible for Osimhen’s death in the eighth round, and the Barcelona star was the primary reason why Mbappe was unable to perform as well against Paris Saint-Germain.
Cubarsi is able to keep one step ahead of his opponent thanks to his aptitude to understand situations and his ability to stop decisive shots. For the purpose of defending the goal of his team, he is always prepared to roll and tackle the ball. When put through his paces in the most important matches of the Champions League, Cubarsi is maturing at a rapid pace.
3. Substitute skillfully
The way in which the two coaches changed personnel was the turning moment that provided the impetus for the tremendous war that took place in France to burst with goals. The decision to remove Marco Asensio from the pitch at the beginning of the second half was made by coach Luis Enrique in order to provide Bradley Barcola with the opportunity to play on the right wing role. Ousmane Dembele will go to the left side of the field as a result of this. The French star was instrumental in Paris Saint-Germain’s equalization in the 48th minute.
As for Xavi, he substituted Pedri for Sergi Roberto in the 61st minute, and just one minute later, the Spanish midfielder made a pass that ripped through the defense of the home team. Pedri was able to score the game-winning goal. In order to complete the double, Raphinha managed to escape and finish with a single touch.
Another substitution was made by Xavi at the 75-minute mark, and Andreas Christensen was brought in to take his place. Following Ilkay Gundogan’s corner kick, the Danish star scored a goal by heading the ball past Gianluigi Donnarumma two minutes later.
It is likely that both coaches will be pleased with the series of tweaks, with Xavi being the one who will be the most pleased.
4. Dembele’s focus
Dembele was the bright spot on Paris Saint-Germain’s front line on the day when Mbappe mysteriously disappeared. After a brief period of technical handling, he eventually booted the net for his previous side. The former Borussia Dortmund player celebrated his goal against Barcelona with a great deal of fervor, which is the most notable aspect of his celebration. It was only inevitable that that move would garner attention.
One more opportunity to put the ball into the post was available to number 10, but Christensen missed it, bringing the score to 3-2. When Paris Saint-Germain plays a club that they are already familiar with, Dembele has the potential to become the team’s hero.
5. PSG is too lacking in bravery
Playing at home, they were considered slightly better thanks to a 27-match unbeaten streak before welcoming Barca, but Enrique and his team were disappointed with a painful loss.
They created confidence in the match’s success after 2 quick goals at the beginning of the second half. However, the disastrous defense and lack of bravery caused PSG to “hold the gold but let the gold fall” when they conceded 2 goals later. Having suffered a bitter defeat, Les Parisiens’ chances of continuing are not high because they still have a trip to Spain.
It seems like PSG missed the Champions League title again another season. Despite receiving a series of failed lessons, the Ligue 1 club is still not mature on the continental playground.