Kylian Mbappe’s last-gasp equalizer secured a crucial point for Paris St Germain (PSG) in their Champions League clash against Newcastle United. Despite a valiant effort from the visitors, Alexander Isak’s first Champions League goal handed them the lead. However, in the dying moments of stoppage time, Mbappe converted a controversial penalty to earn PSG a 1-1 draw at the Parc des Princes.
Newcastle had defended admirably throughout the match, frustrating PSG’s relentless attacks. Isak capitalized on a rebound in the 24th minute after PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma spilled Miguel Almiron’s shot. The home side piled on the pressure, but Newcastle’s resolute defense and goalkeeper Nick Pope’s heroics seemed likely to secure an upset victory.
In a pivotal moment, the ball struck Newcastle’s Tino Livramento’s chest and then his elbow, causing PSG’s players to appeal for handball. After consulting the VAR monitor, referee Szymon Marciniak controversially awarded a penalty, much to Newcastle’s horror. Mbappe confidently dispatched the spot-kick, saving PSG from the brink of defeat.
PSG’s Champions League fate remains in their own hands as they sit on seven points from five games in Group F. Their final match against already qualified Borussia Dortmund will determine their progression to the knockout rounds. Meanwhile, with five points, Newcastle faces AC Milan in their last group stage game, needing a win and hoping that PSG fails to defeat Dortmund to secure qualification.
While PSG dominated the match, tallying over 30 goal attempts, their wasteful finishing and Pope’s extraordinary performance kept them on the edge of defeat. Despite the draw, PSG’s home record in the group stages remains impressive, losing only one out of their last 36 matches.
Reflecting on the game, Mbappe expressed his disappointment at not converting more of his chances: I think I could have done more for my team. I had many chances and didn’t score more goals.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, although proud of his team’s performance, expressed his dismay over the penalty decision: It’s not a penalty when it hits his chest first and then hits his hand which is low. I’m not allowed to sum it up. I can’t say my inner thoughts obviously.
With qualification hopes still alive for both PSG and Newcastle, the final round of Group F matches promises an exhilarating conclusion. PSG’s clash with Dortmund will determine their fate, while Newcastle needs a win against AC Milan, coupled with PSG’s failure to win, to secure their spot in the knockout stages.
