PSG Stun Manchester City 3-1 in Champions League Round of 16 First Leg

Paris Saint-Germain delivered a stunning upset performance, defeating defending Champions League winners Manchester City 3-1 in the first leg of their Round of 16 clash at Parc des Princes on Sunday evening.

Kylian Mbappe was the star of the show for the hosts, scoring twice in the second half to turn the match on its head after City had taken an early lead. The French superstar's pace and clinical finishing proved too much for City's defense, as he exploited the spaces behind their high line to devastating effect.

"This is why we play football, for nights like this," Mbappe said after the match. "Manchester City are an incredible team, but we showed that anything is possible in the Champions League when you believe and execute your plan perfectly."

City opened the scoring in the 23rd minute through Erling Haaland's powerful header from a Kevin De Bruyne corner, continuing the Norwegian striker's remarkable Champions League form. However, PSG responded with character and tactical discipline that has often been questioned in big European matches.

Ousmane Dembele equalized just before halftime with a brilliant curled effort from the edge of the box, before Mbappe took control in the second period. The 25-year-old scored in the 67th and 78th minutes, first with a composed finish after a lightning counter-attack, then with a trademark run from deep that left City's defense in shambles.

Pep Guardiola's side struggled to create clear chances after the break, with PSG's pressing and organization limiting their usual fluid passing combinations. The result gives PSG a significant advantage heading into the second leg at the Etihad Stadium, though City have shown time and again their ability to overturn difficult situations. This Champions League campaign continues to produce surprises, and PSG's victory serves as a reminder that European football's biggest prize remains as unpredictable as ever.