PSG managed to overcome Liverpool in the 2025-26 Champions League quarterfinals first leg, showcasing all their offensive firepower. Throughout the match, the French side imposed a high press and ball dominance that neutralized their opponent. While the Reds looked to break on the counterattack, they were unable to get out of their own area, losing rhythm. In addition, Désiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia led the scoring side of the game.
The Reds did not arrive in their best form to face the French side, as they were coming off two consecutive defeats. In addition, coach Arne Slot opted for a defensive strategy with five defenders, looking to attack on the counter. Nevertheless, Luis Enrique’s team managed to apply immense pressure that left them completely blocked. Even Jeremy Frimpong and Hugo Ekitke were isolated in attack, as their teammates remained in their own area.
Unlike in previous Champions League matches, Liverpool failed to dominate the midfield throughout the game. Although Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister possess exceptional talent, they were pressured by PSG the entire match, which neutralized their offensive contributions. As a result, Ekitike and Florian Wirtz received neither support nor clear-cut chances, ending the game without shots on goal.
Taking advantage of his tactical versatility, PSG head coach Luis Enrique opted for a highly mobile front line. As a result, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desiré Doué, and Ousmane Dembélé constantly switched positions, throwing the Reds off balance. Following this, the French side managed to dominate the game, creating openings in the opponent’s crowded defense. Furthermore, they capitalized on their chances, scoring two goals to secure the victory.
Desiré Doue and Kvicha Kvaratskhelia dominated PSG’s offense
Taking advantage of Liverpool’s defensive mindset, PSG managed to gain confidence on offense, their greatest strength. Following a brilliant team play, Desire Doue received the ball on the left wing and dribbled past all his opponents. After driving toward the goal, the Frenchman unleashed a powerful shot to score the team’s first goal, beating Giorgi Mamardashvili within just 10 minutes.
In the second half, the French side continued to press forward against Liverpool. After receiving the ball in midfield, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia found Joao Neves, who controlled the ball and played it back to the Georgian as he ran into space. Upon receiving the ball, he produced a magnificent individual play, dribbling past Liverpool’s defenders to find himself one-on-one and score the second goal of the game.