After the defeat against AC Milan in the previous match, PSG was determined to bounce back as they hosted Newcastle at the Parc des Princes in the fifth round of the Champions League Group F.
A victory against the English representatives would secure PSG’s qualification to the next round. However, the Parisian team disappointed their fans once again. They found themselves trailing 1-0 against Newcastle until the 90+8th minute of ιnjury time. Fortunately, they were awarded a controversial penalty in the dying moments of the game. Kylian Mbappe stepped up and converted the penalty to salvage a 1-1 draw for PSG.
Following this draw, PSG sits in second place in Group F with 7 points, two points ahead of both Newcastle and AC Milan. Dortmund has already secured their spot in the next round after defeating AC Milan 3-1 in this round. The German team currently tops the group with 10 points, while Newcastle is in third place with 5 points, leaving only one more round of matches to be played.
PSG fielded their strongest lineup against Newcastle, featuring the attacking quartet of Mbappe, Lee Kang In, Dembele, and Muani. On the other hand, Newcastle deployed an attacking trio consisting of Almiron, Isak, and Gordon.
Despite enjoying home advantage, PSG struggled to break down Newcastle’s solid defense. They dominated possession but faced difficulties against Newcastle’s resilient backline. As PSG pushed forward in search of an equalizer, they were caught off guard.
In the 24th minute, Livramento displayed some skillful dribbling in PSG’s defensive zone before providing a pass to Almiron. Although Almiron’s shot was initially saved by goalkeeper Donnarumma, Isak was in the right place to tap in the opening goal for Newcastle.
After conceding, PSG had to commit more players forward in their quest for a goal. However, on a day when Newcastle’s goalkeeper Nick Pope was in sensational form, Mbappe and Dembele’s attempts were denied time and time again.
In the second half, PSG’s manager, Luis Enrique, made several personnel changes in an attempt to spark a comeback. However, PSG’s attackers showed signs of desperation and failed to capitalize on their chances.
Just when it seemed like the match would end in a Newcastle victory, a turning point occurred in the 90+8th minute. The ball struck Livramento’s arm, and the referee awarded PSG a penalty. Mbappe calmly stepped up and converted the penalty, equalizing the scoreline to 1-1.
However, the decision to award the penalty sparked a heated controversy. Newcastle argued that the ball first Һit Livramento’s chest before bouncing onto his arm. According to FIFA rules, the referee should not have awarded a penalty to PSG in that situation.