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Champions League Drama: Barcelona Stuns PSG with Last-Minute Comeback

Carlos Mendez
Carlos Mendez
Soccer Correspondent
11:49 AM
SOCCER
Champions League Drama: Barcelona Stuns PSG with Last-Minute Comeback
A dramatic 4-3 victory at Camp Nou puts Barcelona in commanding position for the quarterfinals after trailing 3-1.

Barcelona produced one of the most memorable Champions League comebacks in recent memory, overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat Paris Saint-Germain 4-3 at Camp Nou in their Round of 16 second leg clash. The thrilling victory gives Barcelona a 5-4 aggregate lead heading into the return fixture in Paris.

PSG appeared to be cruising to the quarterfinals after racing to a 3-1 lead through goals from Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, and Marco Verratti. The French champions controlled the tempo for the first hour, with Mbappe's pace and directness causing constant problems for Barcelona's defense.

Robert Lewandowski had given Barcelona an early lead with a well-placed header from a Pedri cross, but PSG's quick response seemed to deflate the Camp Nou crowd. However, what followed was pure magic from the Catalan giants, reminiscent of their famous 6-1 comeback against PSG in 2017.

The turnaround began in the 67th minute when Gavi scored a stunning volley from the edge of the box, reducing the deficit to 3-2. The young midfielder's strike seemed to ignite both the team and the 98,000 spectators, creating an electric atmosphere that has become synonymous with Camp Nou's biggest European nights.

Raphinha equalized in the 78th minute with a clever finish after excellent work from Lamine Yamal down the right flank. The Brazilian winger has been Barcelona's most consistent performer this season, and his goal set up a grandstand finish that had fans on the edge of their seats.

The winner came deep into stoppage time when substitute Fermin Lopez bundled home from close range after PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma could only parry a fierce shot from Lewandowski. The goal sparked wild celebrations throughout the stadium, with players and fans embracing the magic of European football at its finest.

"This is why we play football," said Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez after the match. "To create these special moments that will live in the memory forever. The players showed incredible character and belief, and the fans pushed us over the line."

The result puts Barcelona in prime position to reach the quarterfinals, but they know PSG will be dangerous in the return leg. With Mbappe's pace and PSG's experience in high-pressure situations, the tie remains delicately balanced ahead of next month's decisive second leg.

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