UEFA Champions League: Barcelona and PSG Secure Dominant Wins
In a night of thrilling UEFA Champions League action, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain both delivered commanding performances in their respective quarter-final first legs, setting them up for strong positions ahead of the return matches.
Barcelona 4-0 Borussia Dortmund
Barcelona showcased their attacking prowess with a resounding 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. Robert Lewandowski, the former Dortmund star, played a pivotal role, scoring twice against his old club.
The home side began with a flurry of chances, dominating possession and forcing Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel into early saves. Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s young sensation, was particularly vibrant, seeing a curling effort saved and another shot fizz wide after displaying exceptional skill.
The breakthrough came in the 25th minute when Raphinha nudged Pau Cubarsí’s flick over the line after Iñigo Martínez headed a free-kick back across goal. Just before halftime, Dortmund almost equalized with a powerful shot from Serhou Guirassy that narrowly missed the target.
After the break, Barcelona continued their dominance, quickly extending their lead with a well-coordinated team goal. Yamal delivered a delicate cross, which Raphinha headed back for Lewandowski to nod in from close range. Lewandowski then added a second, finishing a sweeping move set up by Fermín López’s precise pass.
Yamal capped off the evening with a fourth goal, confidently poking in after a through ball from Raphinha. Barcelona coach Hansi Flick acknowledged the formidable challenge ahead, emphasizing the need to minimize errors in the second leg.
“We have four big steps left in this competition,” Lewandowski remarked. “We need to continue working as a team to achieve our goals.”
Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 Aston Villa
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Aston Villa 3-1 at the Parc des Princes. After a surprising opener from Villa’s Morgan Rogers in the 35th minute, PSG responded quickly.
Désiré Doué equalized just five minutes later with a stunning curling shot, and the momentum shifted in favor of the French champions. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia then scored a spectacular goal just after halftime, putting PSG ahead with a powerful strike after a swift counterattack.
Nuno Mendes sealed the victory with a third goal, capping off a well-executed team move that showcased PSG’s attacking depth. Coach Luis Enrique praised his team’s performance and the importance of confidence going into the second leg.
Aston Villa coach Unai Emery remained optimistic despite the defeat, highlighting the growth of his team: “We competed fantastically and were close to a good result.”
Looking Ahead
Both Barcelona and PSG will head into their respective second legs with significant advantages, but the return matches promise to be challenging. Barcelona will travel to Dortmund, while PSG will face Aston Villa in Birmingham on April 15 as both teams aim for a spot in the semi-finals.
