Achraf Hakimi once again underlined his growing influence on Europe’s biggest stage as Paris Saint-Germain staged a spirited comeback to secure a 3-2 victory over AS Monaco in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff clash.
The Moroccan international found the net on Tuesday night to inspire PSG’s recovery after a difficult opening spell that saw the hosts fall two goals behind. Monaco struck early through Folarin Balogun, who rose highest to meet a teasing cross and head past the goalkeeper inside the opening minute.
The American forward doubled his tally soon after, keeping his composure inside the area to slot home and give Monaco a commanding advantage.
PSG responded with urgency and were rewarded midway through the first half when Désiré Doué reduced the deficit with a precise effort that clipped the post on its way into the net.
The momentum swung further in the visitors’ favour four minutes before the break as Hakimi reacted quickest to a loose ball in the box, firing home the rebound to draw PSG level.
The second half saw the French champions grow in confidence, controlling possession and pushing Monaco deeper. Their pressure eventually paid off in the 67th minute when Doué struck again, carving out space inside the area before finishing clinically to complete the turnaround.
Hakimi’s latest goal continues an impressive personal run in the competition, with the defender now leading all players in his position for goal contributions in the Champions League since the start of last season, having registered five goals and eight assists.
What a goal,hakimi is always aware,best Rb in the whole world currently,nobody comes close pic.twitter.com/jzlmkc8rqr
— united son❤ (@mensandtins) February 17, 2026
With the narrow advantage secured, PSG will head into the second leg full of belief, while Monaco are left to rue a promising start that ultimately slipped away against a side growing in authority as the tie unfolded.
