SOCCER: PSG rally from early deficit to beat Monaco 3-2 away in Champions League playoff

MONACO – Paris St Germain came from a two-goal deficit to defeat 10-man Monaco 3-2 away in the first leg of their Champions League knockout playoff tie on Tuesday.

Monaco appeared to have the upper hand early, scoring within the opening minute and doubling their lead by the 18th minute through Folarin Balogun. PSG looked in trouble until 20-year-old Desire Doue came off the bench to spark an impressive turnaround.

Doue replaced Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, who left the game injured after 27 minutes, and proved decisive for PSG. He scored two superb goals and set up the third for Achraf Hakimi, securing a crucial away victory for the European champions.

Monaco spent much of the second half with 10 men after Aleksandr Golovin received a red card for a studs-up tackle on Vitinha. The referee initially issued a caution but upgraded it to a sending-off after consulting the VAR monitor.

PSG now hold a strong advantage ahead of the return leg in Paris next Wednesday as they aim to advance to the last 16.

Monaco Takes Early Control

PSG were caught off guard just 56 seconds into the match when Nuno Mendes’ cross-field pass was intercepted. Golovin quickly set up Balogun, who headed the ball home from close range.

Monaco seemed to dominate as Balogun added his second goal after Maghnes Akliouche’s precise pass allowed him to outrun PSG captain Marquinhos and score.

PSG Miss Penalty but Turn the Game Around

PSG had a chance to reduce the deficit in the 22nd minute when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was fouled in the box by Wout Faes, but Vitinha’s penalty was saved by Monaco goalkeeper Philipp Kohn.

The momentum shifted when Doue entered the field, scoring with his first touch in the 29th minute after a setup from Bradley Barcola. A VAR check confirmed the goal despite Monaco’s protests of a foul on defender Vanderson.

Doue struck again in the 41st minute, only for Kohn to parry the ball, allowing Hakimi to follow up and make it 2-2 before halftime.

PSG Dominate After Red Card

Golovin’s dismissal in the 48th minute left Monaco vulnerable. PSG controlled the game and sealed the win in the 67th minute as Doue fired a stunning shot from the edge of the penalty area.

“I didn’t feel I had to show something starting on the bench. I just tried to play as usual. Tonight it paid off. I was able to score and help the team. That’s my job,” Doue said.

“The coach makes his choices, thinking about putting the best players on the field. Tonight he chose a strong starting eleven. Whether it’s a defeat or a victory, it’s always a team effort.”

PSG midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery missed a few good chances, and Hakimi nearly added a fourth goal in the 86th minute when his angled shot went just wide.

Monaco captain Denis Zakaria reflected on the result: “Disappointment is the overriding feeling. We went into this match aiming to win, but we didn’t manage it today. We still have our chances. We’re going to Paris and trying to win there.” -Writing by Mark Gleeson in Cape Town; Editing by Christian Radnedge and Toby Davis/Reuters