PSG have continued their impressive run in the Champions League, coming from two goals down to beat Monaco 3-2 in a thrilling first leg of their playoff tie.
The reigning UCL champions were made to work hard for the win, with Monaco taking an early lead through Folarin Balogun’s goals. The USA international’s third career goal against PSG came in under 60 seconds, as he headed home unmarked from Alexsandr Golovin’s cross to the back post.
Balogun’s second goal, just 15 minutes in, seemed to put Monaco in control. He fired past Matvei Sofonov following Maghnes Akliouche’s through ball, and PSG looked like they were in for a tough night. But that strike woke PSG up from its slumber, and they started to create chances.
Kvara Kvaratskhelia had a great opportunity to reduce the deficit, but his shot was blocked, while Vitinha’s penalty was saved by Phillip Kohn.
However, PSG kept pushing, and it paid off before halftime. Desire Doue scored a stunning equalizer, rippling the net via the post with a pinpoint effort from a tight angle. Achraf Hakimi followed up with a clinical finish from the other side of the area, and PSG was level at 2-2. The momentum had shifted, and PSG looked more likely to score next.
Just after halftime, PSG received a significant boost as Alexsandr Golovin was sent off following a challenge on Vitinha. Monaco was reduced to 10 men, and PSG’s chances of completing the comeback increased. Enrique’s men dominated possession and territory but struggled to create chances against a Monaco side now sitting deep in their own third.
But PSG’s quality and depth shone through. Doue scored his second goal, hammering into the bottom corner from just inside the area to put his side in the ascendancy. Monaco tried to fight back, but PSG’s defence held firm.
What a COMEBACK. 🔥👏#UCL (2-3) pic.twitter.com/U4ZxhUpEnL
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) February 17, 2026
The match was an exciting watch, with Luis Enrique’s team showing they can overcome adversity. Monaco will need to be at its best to turn the tie around next week. The second leg promises to be an exciting encounter, with Monaco aiming to defeat PSG for just the second time in six meetings. But PSG’s momentum and quality make them favorites to advance.
PSG’s unbeaten run in the Champions League continues, and they’ll look to build on this win as they host Monaco next week.
