Luis Enrique Returns to Barcelona, Knocks Out Former Club with PSG Triumph
Mbappe Inspires Parisian Victory
Catalonia Comeback Falls Short
Luis Enrique's return to Barcelona proved bittersweet as his Paris Saint-Germain side eliminated his former club from the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night. Kylian Mbappe starred for the Parisians, netting two second-half goals to secure a 4-1 away win and a 6-4 aggregate triumph.
The match was a tale of two halves, with Barcelona dominating the first period but failing to find the breakthrough. Lionel Messi struck the woodwork twice, while Marc-Andre ter Stegen produced a string of fine saves to keep PSG at bay. However, the tide turned after the interval as Mbappe took control.
The French forward's first goal came in the 50th minute, a clinical finish after being played through by Neymar. Mbappe doubled his tally 20 minutes later, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to fire home from close range. Lionel Messi pulled one back for Barcelona with a stunning free-kick, but it proved a mere consolation as PSG held on for a memorable victory.
The result sends PSG through to the quarter-finals, where they will face Bayern Munich, while Barcelona's European campaign comes to an end with disappointment. Luis Enrique's side now faces a crucial clash with Real Madrid in La Liga on Sunday, as they look to reignite their domestic title challenge.
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