Champions League
Borussia Dortmund Edges Paris Saint-Germain In UCL Semi-final First Leg
Borussia Dortmund secured a hard-earned 1-0 win in an absorbing first leg of their UEFA Champions League (UCL) semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain at Signal Iduna Park.
The match showed the best of European football as Dortmund extended their unbeaten home record in European competition to four matches, with two wins and two draws.
The game kicked off with Dortmund displaying their intent early on, as Marcel Sabitzer tested Gianluigi Donnarumma with a well-struck effort. Despite PSG’s attempts to gain control as the first half progressed, Dortmund’s defense remained resolute limiting clear-cut chances for the visitors.
Dortmund’s persistence paid off in the 36th minute when Nico Schlotterbeck drifted a superb defense-splitting ball into the path of Niclas Füllkrug, who took one touch to compose himself before firing a clinical finish beyond Donnarumma to give the hosts the lead. Sabitzer came close to doubling the advantage before halftime, but Donnarumma saved it keeping PSG in the game.
The second half saw PSG pushing for an equalizer, with Kylian Mbappé and Achraf Hakimi both hitting the woodwork in quick succession. Fabián Ruiz missed a golden opportunity for PSG, while Dortmund squandered a chance of their own through Füllkrug.
As the match entered its final stages, both teams created scoring opportunities. Ousmane Dembélé and Julian Brandt were denied by excellent goalkeeping and defending, keeping the scoreline unchanged. The thrilling encounter ended with Dortmund holding onto their narrow lead, setting up an exciting second leg in Paris.
