Paris Saint Germain (PSG) VS Borussia Dortmund (Dortmund)
In the opening match of their Champions League campaign, Paris St-Germain secured victory against Borussia Dortmund thanks to Kylian Mbappe's pivotal moment. Mbappe converted a penalty on 49 minutes after Nicklas Sule handled his shot. PSG's lead extended when Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi and midfielder Vitinha combined effectively, doubling the home team's advantage. Group F includes PSG, Newcastle, and AC Milan. Despite dominating possession and creating several opportunities, PSG faced persistent resistance from Dortmund, particularly during the first half. Meanwhile, Newcastle managed to hold AC Milan to a goalless draw at San Siro.
In the initial 45 minutes, the closest to scoring was Vitinha, who hit the post with a bouncing shot from 18 yards, while Randal Kolo Muani's attempt from the edge of the box was deflected over the crossbar.
Before halftime, PSG believed they deserved a penalty when Sule's hand touched a corner, but their appeal was denied following a video assistant referee (VAR) review. However, the tables turned in the second half.
Mbappe's close-range shot struck Sule's hand, and VAR confirmed the on-field decision of a penalty. Mbappe stepped up to take the penalty himself, calmly slotting the ball into the bottom right corner, leaving goalkeeper Gregor Kobel with no chance.
PSG sealed all three points in impressive fashion just before the hour mark. Vitinha executed a perfect backheel pass to Hakimi, engaging in a slick passing sequence with the right-back.
Hakimi cut inside and clinically finished with the outside of his boot, showing restraint in his celebration against his former club.
This victory marked a successful start for manager Luis Enrique in his inaugural Champions League match at the helm of the French champions.