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PSG qualifies for the UEFA Champions League knockouts (Source: Twitter)
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) narrowly secured their spot in the UEFA Champions League knockout stage after a tense 1-1 draw against Borussia Dortmund. After the draw, PSG's fate hung in the balance, relying on the outcome of the concurrent Group F match between Newcastle and AC Milan. A loss for PSG combined with a Newcastle win would have seen the French champions exit the competition.
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Fortunately for PSG, Newcastle squandered their lead, succumbing to a late AC Milan winner in a dramatic 2-1 turnaround. Earlier, PSG's night started with promise as Kylian Mbappé and his teammates aimed for an early lead. Despite several chances, including a cleared attempt by Mbappé and shots hitting the post, they struggled to break the deadlock. Dortmund seized an opportunity in the 51st minute, with Karim Adeyemi capitalising on a PSG defensive lapse, pushing the French side to the brink of elimination.
However, PSG swiftly responded as 17-year-old Warren Zare-Emery netted an equaliser just five minutes later. Simultaneously, AC Milan's Christian Pulisic levelled the score against Newcastle, offering PSG a lifeline in the competition.
Can PSG clinch their maiden Champions League title?
In a rollercoaster game, Mbappé had a goal disallowed for offside, adding to the suspense. AC Milan then completed a remarkable comeback, with Samuel Chukwueze scoring a late winner in the 84th minute. This result ensured PSG's passage to the Champions League knockout stage, securing the final qualification spot in Group F.
Despite a less-than-convincing group stage campaign, PSG advances alongside Dortmund, with AC Milan dropping into the Europa League. The draw for the round of 16, scheduled for December 18, will determine PSG's next opponent as they continue their quest for a maiden Champions League title. The narrow escape highlights the unpredictability and drama that characterise elite football competitions. On the other hand, Newcastle finished last in the group, failing to qualify for any further competitions.