Desire Doue gives Paris Saint-Germain the lead as Joan Garcia keeps Barcelona under pressure

Paris Saint-Germain took the lead through Desire Doue after Joao Neves won possession in Barcelona’s defensive half and set up a low finish into the bottom-left corner.

The goal came after Joan Garcia had already made a series of important saves for Barcelona, including a fine stop to deny Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from inside the area. The goalkeeper also kept out efforts from Ferran Torres, Fabian Ruiz and Doue, twice reacting sharply to powerful shots near the edge of the box.

Barcelona had periods of pressure and slightly more possession, with the figure standing at 51% compared with 49% for Paris Saint-Germain. Dani Olmo went close with a shot from the edge of the area that narrowly missed the left post, while Lamine Yamal sent an effort just beyond the right post.

Pedri also tested the Paris Saint-Germain defence, striking from inside the penalty area only for the ball to deflect behind for a corner. From the resulting set-piece, Pau Cubarsi met a high delivery with a well-directed header, but the Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper produced a quick reaction save.

Barcelona continued to circulate the ball in midfield, while Paris Saint-Germain attempted to build attacks through a series of short passes. Achraf Hakimi delivered from the right on several occasions, although Barcelona’s defence dealt with the danger. Doue also crossed from the right but sent the ball too far, allowing it to run out for a goal-kick.

At the other end, Raphinha tried to create an opening with a direct run, but a Paris Saint-Germain defender closed the space and stopped his advance. Yamal also attempted to release a pass into the centre, only for the move to be cut out.

Paris Saint-Germain had a goal ruled out for offside after Ousmane Dembele was judged to have been beyond the defensive line. Dembele later appeared unable to continue because of a hamstring injury, prompting the first forced substitution for Paris Saint-Germain.

Barcelona also made an enforced change after Dani Olmo suffered an injury. William Pacho required treatment following a collision with Fermin Lopez but appeared set to continue.

There were several stoppages and fouls during the match. Lucas Hernandez was penalised after challenges on Yamal, while Doue was booked for a foul on a Barcelona player near the right side of the area. Doue was also involved in challenges on Gerard Martin, who won free-kicks in both the defensive and attacking halves.

Vitinha delivered a free-kick from the right into the box, but Olmo headed the ball clear. Fabian Ruiz later received a pass from Doue and sent the ball towards the penalty area, although it was comfortably collected by Garcia.

Three minutes of added time were awarded at the end of the half.