PSG trembles into the semi-finals: dramatic return of Aston Villa!

PSG trembles into the semi-finals: dramatic return of Aston Villa!

On April 16, 2025, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League, despite a tense 3-2 defeat in the second leg against Aston Villa. The aggregate score of 5-4 secured PSG's place in the last four and the team is now in the semi-finals for the fourth time in the last six years. However, this static superiority is called into question by the closeness of the game, as Villa put in a remarkable performance in the second half that pushed PSG to the limit.

PSG took the lead early in the game, played at Villa Park. Achraf Hakimi made it 1-0 in the 11th minute when he converted a cross from Barcola. Just 16 minutes later, Nuno Mendes made it 2-0 after a quick counterattack. This early dominance seemed to give PSG momentum, but the tide turned when Aston Villa drew level through Youri Tielemans' goal in the 34th minute. Villa continued to turn things up in the second half.

Exciting second half

Aston Villa's pressure paid off: John McGinn equalized the game in the 55th minute with a precise shot, and just two minutes later Ezri Konsa gave the hosts a 3-2 lead. This turn of events put PSG in a nervous phase, but fortunately the team was able to rely on their goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. The keeper made crucial saves in the 59th and 69th minutes to secure the draw.

In the final phase, PSG stabilized again and was able to fend off the visitors' attacks. Maatsen had Villa's final chance in stoppage time, but his chance was cleared by Pacho. Despite the defeat, PSG shows that they should be taken seriously as title contenders, even if doubts were raised among the fans. They now have to focus on the semi-finals, where they will face either Arsenal or Real Madrid.

A look back at the statistics

The course of the game shows that PSG were considered one of the strongest teams in this round of the Champions League, but Aston Villa showed their potential in the second leg and brought the Paris team to the brink of defeat. PSG must now mobilize all their strength to avoid getting into similar difficulties again in the next round. How Bleacher Report notes, loss of concentration was an issue that could haunt PSG in the past.

Overall, it remains exciting to see how PSG will perform in the coming games. The pressure to get through to the semi-finals and win the Champions League will be even greater next time. Interested readers can find detailed information about the game and statistics kicker.de.

More information about the game is also available Laola1 to find.