Champions League semi-final: Man City edge 2-1 against PSG in first leg

PSG were outstanding for half an hour on the first half at Parc de Princes, but Manchester City had some words of wisdom from their manager in the half-time break. They came out with a different body language, a different attitude, their danger players getting on the ball and making the difference.

PSG got an early goal when Marquinhos scored a header from a corner kick by Di Maria. After the goal, PSG looked comfortable both, with and without the ball. City barely made it to PSG’s box and didn’t create any clear goal-scoring chance.

In the second half, PSG were looking comfortable at start, but after Pep substituted Joao Cancelo for Zinchenko, things took a turn for City. They were playing more fluid football, all they needed was some luck.

Soon enough, Kevin De Bruyne crossed a ball into PSG’s box, which missed all City and PSG players and went into the net to everyones’ surprise. After this goal, City seemed more comfortable on the ball. Soon, just 6 minutes later they were awarded a freekick. Mahrez banged the free-kick between PSG’s wall and it flew past Keylor Navas. It was an amazing free-kick goal, seen after a few seasons in the UCL semi-finals.

To add to PSG’s troubles, Gueye was sent off after a horror tackle on Gundagon. After this, City were at ease, and the match ended 1-2, in City’s favour.

There were no “superstars” in the Manchester City side. They worked as a team. Yes, they have terrific footballers and are great to watch but they are firstly a team. Paris Saint-Germain also have great players – and two superstars in the modern game – but I think Kylian Mbappe and Neymar let the team down tonight.

Next stop, Etihad stadium for the second leg. PSG have their task cut out as they would need to score at least 2 goals to qualify for the UCL finals at. It will all be decided on next Wednesday as to who makes it to the final.

Will it be Pep’s first UCL final since 2011 or will Pochettino try to avenge himself after his last UCL final loss against Liverpool?

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