In a thrilling clash between two French brands in the Champions League playoffs, Paris Saint-Germain defeated AS Monaco 3-2 away. Although the hosts were already leading by two goals after strikes from Folarin Balogun, the defending champions from Paris managed to turn the match around. The game at Stade Louis-II confirmed the high form of the Parisians in confrontations with domestic rivals, despite earlier league difficulties for Luis Enrique's charges.

Monaco's early dominance

American Folarin Balogun scored two goals within the first 18 minutes of the match, giving the hosts a sensational lead.

Successful comeback by the Parisians

Despite the deficit, Paris Saint-Germain turned the match around, winning 3:2 and moving closer to advancement.

Form crisis broken

For Luis Enrique's team, this was an important breakthrough after a league defeat to Stade Rennais last weekend.

The first match of the playoff phase of the 2025-2026 Champions League season between AS Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain provided fans with immense emotions. The hosts, represented among others by Swiss players Philipp Köhn and Denis Zakaria, started the match with incredible momentum. Already in the 18th minute, they led 2:0 thanks to two goals from American striker Folarin Balogun. It seemed that the team from the principality would manage to cause a surprise and repeat past successes, but the Parisians demonstrated greater experience on the international stage. Intra-French rivalry in European cups has become more frequent after the UEFA format reform. Last season, PSG eliminated Stade Brestois in the same phase of the competition, winning the two-legged tie 10:0. Despite the brilliant performance of Monaco's goalkeeper and ambitious defensive play, the defending champions from Paris managed to recover the deficit and ultimately win 3:2. The team led by Luis Enrique approached this match in not the best spirits after a loss to Rennes in Ligue 1 competitions. The victory at Stade Louis-II places PSG as the clear favorite ahead of the return leg in the capital, continuing the streak of successes against clubs from the same league in the European elite. Stade Louis II in Monaco, opened in 1985, is known for its unique architecture, including nine characteristic arches on the south stand, and regularly hosts major sporting events. For Monaco, which qualified for the playoffs from 21st place in the league phase, Tuesday's defeat is painful, especially considering the phenomenal start to the match. Experts emphasize that for the team from the principality, this was a match to "save the season," which so far has not gone according to the fans' wishes. PSG, although assessed as less confident than a year ago before the match, proved that in key moments it can impose its style of play and take control of the result, even playing under enormous pressure on the opponent's pitch.Champions League playoff - first match: AS Monaco 2:3 Paris Saint-Germain18th minute — is the time when Monaco was already leading 2:0 after Balogun's double

Mentioned People

  • Folarin Balogun — American striker for AS Monaco, scorer of two goals in the match against PSG.
  • Luis Enrique — Manager of Paris Saint-Germain, aiming to defend the Champions League title.
  • Philipp Köhn — Swiss goalkeeper for the Monaco team.
  • Denis Zakaria — Swiss midfielder and captain of AS Monaco.