Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored stunning goals to help Paris St Germain come back to defeat Aston Villa 3-1 at the Parc des Princes. This result gives coach Luis Enrique's team a big advantage before the second leg.
The goal of Morgan Rogers brought Aston Villa to lead in the 35th minute. The representative of the Premier League threatened to create a big shock against the Ligue 1 champion. However, the long shot of Doue 4 minutes then brought the match to the starting line. At the beginning of the second half, PSG took the lead thanks to the beautiful solo phase of Kvaratskhelia in the 49th minute.
PSG completely dominated the game and should have scored more goals. However, with Nuno Mendes' goal to increase the score to 3-1 in extra time, PSG is still confident enough to think about the semi-final match.
There were not many things in common between PSG's goalscorers Doue and Kvaratskhelia. One is French and from Rennes, the other from Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. One is 19 years old and the other is 24 years old. One was a Serie A star, while the other was just trying to make a name for himself in Ligue 1.
But they certainly have the same passion and talent in dribbling. And they showed it again when each scored a beautiful goal at the Parc des Princes.
The duo caused Parc des Princes to explode and Villa's solid defence also suffered. PSG had many difficulties winning this match and created an advantage before the second leg. In particular, their two wingers completed their mission excellently.
There are matches where PSG cannot make a comeback, such as away matches against Arsenal or Bayern Munich. However, there were times when this team was able to turn the tables.
Against Manchester City, they were behind by 2 goals after 54 minutes, but still won 4-2. And most recently, the comeback against another English side Villa.
PSG under Enrique rarely show panic. They are always confident in themselves, their qualities and their playing style. "Trust in yourself and your qualities" is what Enrique always reminds the players. They really believe in their ability to defeat any team and overcome all adversity.
"I never say I don't want to have stars. Every coach wants a squad with good players. And that is what we are building at PSG.
This season, we have changed our approach and have to adapt to what is available in the squad. We focus on developing collective ideas, while helping each player improve" - Enrique said after the win over Villa.
