Defeating Monaco, PSG reaches the Champions League round of 16 for the 14th consecutive time

The current UEFA Champions League holders, Paris Saint-Germain, knocked out the remaining Ligue 1 team, AS Monaco, to advance to the round of 16 for the 14th consecutive season, even though they drew 2-2 in the return match against a side down to 10 players.

Needing to overturn the first-leg defeat, something they had never managed on the road in a European knockout tie after seven previous attempts, Monaco started with strong determination. Within the first 10 minutes, they nearly leveled the aggregate score when Maghnes Akliouche skillfully dribbled into the box and passed to Mamadou Coulibaly, but the winger’s shot flew over the bar. Later, Thilo Kehrer also narrowly missed with a header.

PSG gradually improved their play, with Bradley Barcola’s shot hitting the crossbar from a tight angle. However, this was almost the only bright moment for the home team in the first half. Before halftime, Monaco deservedly took the lead as Caio Henrique crossed from the left wing, Coulibaly lightly touched the ball, allowing Akliouche to finish skillfully, hitting the post and then going in.

Just like in the first leg, Monaco made things difficult for themselves again in the second half. Coulibaly, who contributed to the opening goal, received a second yellow card for a late challenge on Achraf Hakimi, reducing the visitors to 10 men.

PSG immediately capitalized on the advantage. Désiré Doué comfortably dribbled close to the sideline before crossing for Marquinhos to easily tap in the equalizer. Minutes later, Hakimi unleashed a long-range shot that goalkeeper Philipp Köhn parried right to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who did not miss the chance to put PSG ahead.

PSG seemed to have full control of the match, but in stoppage time, Simon Adingra’s cross found Jordan Teze, and the Dutch defender scored to reduce the deficit. However, Monaco ran out of time to score again.

The overall victory allows PSG to continue their Champions League round of 16 journey. Nevertheless, having to come back twice against a team reduced to 10 men raises doubts about their ability to successfully defend their European title.