PSG Stun Barcelona with Dramatic Champions League Comeback

Paris Saint-Germain pulled off a remarkable comeback to defeat Barcelona 4-1 at Camp Nou and advance to the Champions League semi-finals with a 6-4 aggregate victory. The French side overturned a 3-2 first-leg deficit, taking advantage of Ronald Araujo's 29th-minute red card to score four unanswered goals.

Barcelona took an early lead through Raphinha in the 12th minute, but the match turned on its head when Araujo was dismissed for a mistimed challenge. Former Barcelona player Ousmane Dembele equalized for PSG just before halftime, and Vitinha drew the tie level on aggregate early in the second half.

Kylian Mbappe, who had a quiet first leg, stepped up when it mattered most. The French superstar converted a penalty to give PSG a 3-1 lead and added a late second goal to seal the victory. Mbappe's brace took his tally to five goals against Barcelona in the Champions League, the most he has scored against any team in the competition.

Why this matters: The result marks a significant achievement for PSG, who have long sought to establish themselves as a dominant force in European football. It also raises questions about Barcelona's future, as they face the prospect of a trophyless season and the potential departure of key players.

The match was not without controversy, as Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez was sent off for his protests against the referee's decisions. "The red card destroyed the game," Xavi claimed after the match.

PSG coach Luis Enrique praised his team's resilience and highlighted the importance of Mbappe's performance. "Kylian showed why he is one of the best players in the world," Enrique said. "He stepped up when we needed him most and helped us achieve a great victory."

In the other quarter-final, Borussia Dortmund defeated Atletico Madrid 4-2 at home to advance 5-4 on aggregate. Dortmund's Marcel Sabitzer scored a goal and provided two assists in a strong individual performance .

PSG will face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League semi-finals, with the first leg set to take place on April 30th. The French side will be looking to reach their second Champions League final in three years, while Dortmund are aiming to make their first appearance in the final since 2013.

Key Takeaways

• PSG comeback to beat Barcelona 4-1 and advance to CL semi-finals 6-4 on agg.
• Mbappe scored a brace, taking his tally to 5 goals vs Barcelona in CL.
• Dortmund defeated Atletico 4-2 at home to advance 5-4 on agg.
• PSG to face Dortmund in CL semi-finals, first leg on April 30th.
• Barcelona's Xavi sent off, claims red card "destroyed the game".