Paris St-Germain secured a spot in the Champions League knockout phase with a crucial draw against Borussia Dortmund, thanks to a goal from 17-year-old Warren Zaire-Emery.
Despite Dortmund taking the lead with Karim Adeyemi’s goal, Zaire-Emery’s equalizer proved to be enough for the French champions to advance to the last 16.
The draw became even more significant as AC Milan fought back to win against Newcastle, solidifying PSG’s place in the next round. Dortmund finished at the top of Group F with 11 points, while PSG secured eight points to join them in the upcoming draw.
For PSG, the Champions League has been a longstanding target, symbolizing their transformation under Qatari ownership. This result marks their 12th consecutive season reaching the knockout stages, emphasizing their consistent presence at the highest level of European competition.
Despite missing key players Neymar and Lionel Messi this season, PSG relied on Kylian Mbappe to make decisive contributions. Mbappe’s dynamic play created opportunities, including an equalizing goal from Zaire-Emery. The 17-year-old’s strike, coupled with news of Milan’s comeback, ensured PSG’s progression and kept their Champions League aspirations alive.
Although Dortmund and PSG had chances in an entertaining first half, the breakthrough came early in the second half when Adeyemi capitalized on a pass from Niclas Fullkrug to put Dortmund ahead. However, Mbappe’s brilliance and Zaire-Emery’s goal secured the draw, ensuring PSG’s advancement.
Mbappe had another goal disallowed for offside, and as both teams learned of the favorable results elsewhere, the match ended in a draw that suited both Dortmund and PSG.