Paris Saint-Germain suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie, despite dominating much of the game.
The Parisians controlled possession and created several opportunities but were ultimately undone by Liverpool’s defensive discipline and the heroics of goalkeeper Alisson Becker.
Speaking after the match, PSG full-back Achraf Hakimi expressed his frustration over the result but remained resolute in his belief that the tie is far from over.
Frustration after missed opportunities
Hakimi acknowledged PSG’s disappointment after failing to capitalize on their dominance.
“Yes, as you say, we are frustrated to finish the match like that, to lose a match that we dominated from the start,” he said in a post-match interview.
The statistics backed his claims, with PSG enjoying superior possession and creating multiple goal-scoring chances.
However, Liverpool’s well-organized defense and clinical finishing proved decisive, leaving the French side with work to do in the return leg.
Focus shifts to the second leg
Despite the setback, Hakimi chose to focus on the positives, praising the team’s performance and determination.
“After all the chances we created, we are happy with the work, the personality, and the desire of the whole team.”
His words reflect the mood within the PSG squad, which remains determined to overturn the deficit. “We are not going to let this go. There is still a second match, and we will go there looking for victory.”
PSG face a tough task at Anfield
With only a one-goal deficit, PSG remains firmly in contention for a place in the quarter-finals.
However, the return leg at Anfield will be a stern test, with Liverpool boasting a formidable home record and vast experience in high-pressure European fixtures.
For PSG to progress, they will need to be more clinical in front of goal while maintaining their defensive solidity against Liverpool’s counter-attacking threat.
The second leg promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with Hakimi and his teammates determined to produce a response worthy of a place in the next round.
