Achraf Hakimi’s PSG win second straight European Super Cup

Paris Saint-Germain retained the European Super Cup after beating Aston Villa 2-1 in Salzburg, Austria, on Wednesday to secure the trophy for a second successive season.

The French side, who entered the match as back-to-back UEFA Champions League winners, recovered from a first-half equaliser to overcome the Europa League holders and claim another European trophy.

Kvaratskhelia gives PSG early advantage

PSG took the lead in the 20th minute when Georgian forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia fired a powerful effort into the net from inside the penalty area.

Aston Villa responded just before half-time through 17-year-old striker Brian Mago.

Mago produced a composed finish from a tight angle in the 45th minute after being picked out by an aerial pass from John McGinn.

The goal also made Mago the youngest player to score in European Super Cup history.

Doué restores PSG’s lead

PSG regained the advantage in the 61st minute through Désiré Doué.

The forward raced onto a through ball from substitute Ousmane Dembélé before finding the net, although the goal was initially ruled out for offside.

A VAR review overturned the decision and PSG were awarded the goal to make it 2-1.

Aston Villa pushed for another equaliser during the closing stages but were unable to find a way past the French champions’ defence.

PSG continue European dominance

The victory means PSG have now lifted the European Super Cup for a second consecutive season.

They also repeated last season’s success, when they defeated Tottenham Hotspur on penalties after a 2-2 draw.

PSG had trailed 2-0 in that match before fighting back to force a shootout.

Their latest triumph adds to a remarkable period of success for the Paris club, who have now won the Champions League for a second successive season.

For African football followers, attention will also remain on Morocco international Achraf Hakimi, who continues to play a prominent role for a PSG side establishing itself among Europe’s leading clubs.