The Champions League resumed on Wednesday, delivering thrilling and frustrating moments for some of Europe’s top teams. PSG secured a last-minute victory, while Manchester City and Inter Milan disappointed in a highly anticipated rematch. Here’s a look at four key takeaways from the evening.
PSG’s Narrow Victory: A Lucky Break
Paris Saint-Germain managed to scrape a 1-0 win over Girona dramatically. PSG manager Luis Enrique summed up the difficulty of the match with an unusual analogy, saying, “This was worse than giving birth, with all due respect.” The team struggled to find their rhythm, and it was only an error from Girona’s goalkeeper, Paulo Gazzaniga, in the final minute that allowed PSG to secure the three points.
Despite dominating possession and creating clear opportunities, including Ousmane Dembélé’s close call, PSG failed to break through until Gazzaniga’s unfortunate fumble. Enrique admitted, “We struggled a lot. It was difficult for us. They’re a team that knows how to play very well.” This close victory highlights PSG’s continued challenge in their quest for a first-ever Champions League title.
City and Inter Fail to Spark in Goalless Rematch
In what was expected to be the night match, Manchester City and Inter Milan played out a disappointing 0-0 draw, a rematch of the 2023 Champions League final. Despite having the home advantage, City struggled to break through Inter’s solid defense, and star striker Erling Haaland was kept quiet throughout the game.
City manager Pep Guardiola praised Inter’s defense, stating, “I admire teams (like Inter) who defend well.” He added, “We prefer to win, but I don’t have regrets. I like everything we have done today.” With both teams missing opportunities, this stalemate left fans wanting more from two of Europe’s top clubs.
Dortmund’s Super Sub Steals the Show
Borussia Dortmund was in a tough battle against Club Brugge until they introduced 20-year-old Jamie Gittens in the second half. Gittens quickly impacted, scoring two goals that sealed a 3-0 victory for the German side. His deflected shot gave Dortmund the lead, and his second goal cemented the win.
Gittens reflected on his performance, saying, “I got the ball to try to make something happen… to score was even better.” Dortmund’s victory was crucial, keeping them in contention for another deep Champions League run after reaching the final last year.
Shakhtar Donetsk Honors Ukraine in Goalless Draw
Shakhtar Donetsk made headlines for more than just their performance in a 0-0 draw against Bologna. The Ukrainian side debuted a new uniform featuring national colors, a tribute to their homeland amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Although Shakhtar had the best opportunity to score, with Georgiy Sudakov’s penalty saved by Bologna’s goalkeeper, the match’s symbolic significance stood out. Shakhtar will continue to play their home games in Germany this season, and their resilience on and off the field is capturing attention.
Mixed Results, High Drama
The latest Champions League action gave fans dramatic moments, unexpected outcomes, and solid defensive displays. PSG’s lucky win, City and Inter’s goalless battle, Dortmund’s super sub performance, and Shakhtar’s meaningful gesture all added to an exciting night of football. The competition is heating up, and the stakes are getting higher as teams look to assert their dominance.
