Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) achieved a remarkable feat on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, as they overcame Liverpool at Anfield to secure their place in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. After losing the first leg 0-1, PSG fought back to win 1-0 during the return match, leading to a thrilling penalty shootout where they triumphed 4-1.
The match started with both teams displaying aggressive momentum. Liverpool aimed to defend their advantage from the first leg, but PSG's Ousmane Dembélé quickly turned the tide. He opened the scoring for the Parisians just 12 minutes in, capitalizing on confusion between Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté and goalkeeper Alisson to push the ball home and equalize on aggregate.
Though PSG created several scoring opportunities, the match was tightly contested, with both teams trading chances throughout. Liverpool responded, particularly during the second half, when Dominik Szoboszlai's would-be equalizer was controversially disallowed for offside. The hosts ramped up the pressure, yet PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma was resolute, making several key saves to keep his team afloat.
Despite maintaining their lead, PSG faced intense scrutiny as Liverpool pushed for goals, including when Trent Alexander-Arnold struck the post late in the match. PSG held on through regulation time and extra time, which included some frantic moments and missed chances from both sides.
With the match level on aggregate at 1-1, the showdown proceeded to penalties. This marked the first time PSG had faced penalties in the Champions League, and the stakes were immeasurable. Donnarumma, showing immense composure, saved efforts from both Darwin Nunez and Curtis Jones, turning the tide decisively.
The successful penalty takers for PSG — Vitinha, Gonçalo Ramos, Dembélé, and finally, Doué — each confidently converted their chances. Doué’s penalty sealed the match, bringing PSG's fans to their feet as the team emerged victorious.
Following the victory, PSG captain Marquinhos reflected on the significance of March 11, sharing, "March 11 is a special day for us, it's Chelsea, it's Dortmund and Liverpool. Every five years, there is something, it's a special day." This statement underlined the club’s proud history of overcoming formidable opponents on this very date.
Moving forward, PSG will face either Aston Villa or Club Bruges, who are set to clash shortly. Yet, this win came at a cost: Marquinhos will be absent for the first leg of the quarter-finals due to suspension after accumulating yellow cards, adding to the team’s challenges as they aim for European glory.
PSG’s triumph over Liverpool not only elevates their status as serious contenders but also enriches their narrative of resilience, determination, and overcoming adversity. The Parisians now look eagerly toward their next clash, bolstered by their remarkable display at Anfield, where they etched their name in the annals of their club's history.