PSG’s nervy escape: How complacency nearly cost them against Aston Villa
Paris Saint-Germain survived a major scare against Aston Villa, losing 2-3 but advancing 5-4 on aggregate to secure their place in the Champions League semifinals. Despite a strong start with goals from Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes, PSG collapsed defensively, allowing Villa to fight back with strikes from Youri Tielemans, John McGinn, and Ezri Konsa.
Gianluigi Donnarumma’s heroics and a last-ditch clearance from Willian Pacho prevented a historic collapse, reminiscent of Barcelona’s 2017 Remontada.
Luis Enrique criticized his team’s complacency, admitting they “gave oxygen to the opponent” by losing control. Key players like Vitinha and Pacho struggled, while Kvaratskhelia was anonymous in attack.
Ousmane Dembélé and Hakimi voiced frustration post-match, warning that such lapses could prove fatal against stronger opponents like Arsenal or Real Madrid in the semis.
PSG’s fragility raises doubts about their ability to lift the trophy—surviving tonight was a relief, but improvement is non-negotiable.
