Real Sociedad v Paris Saint-Germain: Kylian Mbappe dispelled doubts about his future with two goals as Paris Saint-Germain advanced to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, defeating Real Sociedad 2-1.
The 25-year-old, rumored to be heading to Real Madrid after the season, netted a goal in each half at the Reale Arena, leading Luis Enrique’s team to a 4-1 aggregate victory and securing their spot in the last eight, with Mikel Merino scoring a late goal for consolation.
Mbappe again proved crucial on the big stage, with his impressive pair of goals propelling Paris Saint-Germain into the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals following a 2-1 win against Real Sociedad.
The French striker was instrumental in the first match at Parc des Princes. He continued his form with two excellent goals, effectively ending any chances of a comeback from La Real and securing a 4-1 aggregate win for the Ligue 1 titleholders.
From the beginning, Mbappe was a constant threat, showcasing his speed to create an early opportunity for Bradley Barcola and then stunning the crowd in San Sebastian with a brilliant solo goal 15 minutes into the game.
The 25-year-old forward, who is expected to sign with Real Madrid in the upcoming summer, scored his second goal of the match in the 56th minute by breaking away down the left flank and executing a precise finish at the near post against Alex Remiro.
Although Real Sociedad attempted a comeback late in the game with a goal from Mikel Merino, PSG maintained their composure and demonstrated a solid team performance, comfortably moving into the quarter-finals for the first time since 2021.
DISCUSSION POINT – RESERVING MBAPPE FOR THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE COULD PROVE TO BE A GENIUS MOVE
Recent decisions by Luis Enrique have sparked significant discussion, as he has emphasized PSG’s need to adapt to playing without Mbappe following the announcement of the forward’s summer departure.
The Spanish manager has substituted Mbappe early in recent Ligue 1 games – a move seen by many as strategic.
Yet, it was hardly a surprise when Mbappe played the entirety of the second leg in the UEFA Champions League.
Mbappe’s crucial role in PSG’s ambitions in the Champions League is undeniable, and his performance level is reflective of someone many consider the best in the world currently.
Mbappe has been instrumental in helping his team overcome their previous round of 16 challenges. While other teams might not dread facing PSG, Mbappe’s unique impact renders them a formidable opponent that cannot be overlooked.
Enrique’s strategy of managing Mbappe’s playing time, particularly in European matches, might be a stroke of tactical brilliance. Only time will reveal the results of this approach.
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MAN OF THE MATCH
Kylian Mbappe (PSG). The striker stood out as the match’s best performer, reaching 46 goals and 26 assists in just 68 Champions League appearances.
Despite PSG managing his time in domestic competitions, his passion for the Champions League is evident. He seems determined to conclude his tenure at PSG on a high note, significantly impacting the tournament.
PLAYER RATINGS
REAL SOCIEDAD:
- Remiro: 8
- Traore: 7
- Zubeldia: 7
- Le Normand: 7
- Galan: 7
- Mendez: 6
- Zubimendi: 7
- Merino: 6
- Becker: 6
- Kubo: 7
- Oyarzabal: 6
Substitutes:
- Barrenetxea: 6
- Benat: 7
- Pacheco: 6
- Silva: 6
- Olasagasti: N/A
PSG:
- Donnarumma: 7
- Hakimi: 8
- Beraldo: 7
- Hernandez: 7
- Mendes: 7
- Zaire-Emery: 7
- Vitinha: 7
- Fabian Ruiz: 7
- Dembele: 8
- Mbappe: 9
- Barcola: 7
Substitutes:
- Lee Kang-In: 6
- Mukiele: 6
- Ugarte: 6
- Kolo Muani: N/A
- Soler: N/A
MATCH SUMMARY (HIGHLIGHTS)
10′ – PSG Opportunity! Mbappe accelerates past defenders to the left sideline, delivering a sharp, ground cross to Barcola, whose point-blank attempt is impressively thwarted by Álex Remiro.
15′ – GOAL! – Real Sociedad 0-1 PSG: Mbappe makes a dynamic entry into the penalty area from the left, feints a shot, then finds space to skillfully bend a low effort into the distant corner, extending PSG’s aggregate lead to 3-0.
30′ – PSG Attempt! Remiro reacted swiftly, using his left foot to deflect Mbappe’s direct strike, following a cross from Barcola on the right.
56′ – GOAL! – Real Sociedad 0-2 PSG: Mbappe scores again! The forward bursts free on the left flank confidently enters the penalty area, and deceives the goalkeeper with an ingenious finish at the near post, increasing PSG’s aggregate advantage to 4-0.
89′ – GOAL! – Real Sociedad 1-2 PSG: The home team scores as Merino converts the rebound after Donnarumma deflects a driven cross from the right straight into his path, adjusting PSG’s aggregate lead to 4-1.