September 18, (THEWILL) — Defending UEFA Champions League champions Paris Saint-Germain delivered a commanding performance at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday, defeating Atalanta 4-0 in their tournament opener. The French giants continued their impressive form from last season’s final, where they defeated Inter 5-0, demonstrating the same ruthless efficiency against another Italian opponent.
Captain Marquinhos required only three minutes to open the scoring, converting from close range after Fabian Ruiz delivered a precise low cross into the penalty area. The home side maintained relentless pressure throughout the first half, with Nuno Mendes, Senny Mayulu and Bradley Barcola all creating dangerous opportunities in quick succession. Barcola thought he had doubled the lead but saw his effort ruled out for offside.
Georgia international, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, eventually provided the second goal in the 39th minute, completing a magnificent individual run with a fierce strike from outside the penalty area that left Marco Carnesecchi with no chance. PSG came close to extending their advantage further before the interval when referee, Sandro Scharer, awarded a penalty following VAR consultation for Yunus Musah’s challenge on Marquinhos.
However, Barcola’s spot-kick attempt was saved directly by Atalanta goalkeeper, Carnesecchi, denying Luis Enrique’s team a more commanding half-time lead. The missed penalty proved inconsequential as PSG resumed their dominance early in the second period. Barcola turned from penalty taker to provider six minutes after the restart, setting up Mendes, who squeezed his shot past Carnesecchi from an acute angle to restore the three-goal cushion the home side had threatened before the break.
Substitute Goncalo Ramos completed the comprehensive victory with a composed finish late in the match. The Portuguese striker capitalised on a loose ball inside the penalty area, lifting a delicate chip over the stranded Atalanta goalkeeper to seal a perfect start to PSG’s title countess.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
