Barcelona and PSG Survive Scares to Book Champions League Semifinal Spots

Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain both endured nervy second legs on Tuesday but ultimately secured their spots in the UEFA Champions League semifinals after aggregate victories over Borussia Dortmund and Aston Villa, respectively.

For Barcelona, the return to the final four comes after a six-year absence, though it wasn’t without drama. Despite a dominant 4-0 win at home in the first leg, Barça were outplayed in the second leg, falling 3-1 to Dortmund at Signal Iduna Park. Guinean striker Serhou Guirassy delivered a stunning hat-trick, with goals coming from the penalty spot, a close-range header, and a sharp finish late in the game.

A crucial own goal by Ramy Bensebaini helped ease the pressure for the Catalans, ensuring a 5-3 aggregate victory. Hansi Flick’s side weathered an attacking storm, facing 18 shots—11 on target—but held on to progress.

“This was a tough match. Dortmund played excellently, but we’re through, and that’s what matters,” Flick commented. “We’ve come a long way but there’s still work to do.”

Barcelona’s run ended an impressive 24-game unbeaten streak but keeps their hopes alive for a first Champions League title since 2015.

Meanwhile, PSG also faced a fierce comeback attempt from Aston Villa. After leading 3-1 from the first leg, PSG quickly extended their aggregate advantage with early strikes from Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes at Villa Park. However, the hosts, energized by royal supporters Prince William and son George, roared back.

Youri Tielemans gave Villa a lifeline with a deflected effort, before John McGinn and Ezri Konsa scored in quick succession to put the English side within touching distance of extra time. A string of saves by Gianluigi Donnarumma proved decisive as PSG clung on for a 5-4 aggregate triumph.

“It was a strange match. We started strong but lost focus for a few minutes and suffered for it,” said PSG boss Luis Enrique. “Still, these are the experiences that shape great teams.”

As a result, Barcelona will face the winner of Inter Milan vs. Bayern Munich, while PSG awaits either Arsenal or Real Madrid in the final four.