Borussia Dortmund secured a 1-0 victory over PSG in the Champions League semi-final first leg, thanks to Niclas Füllkrug’s first-half goal. Jadon Sancho shone as the star performer, creating multiple chances and posing a threat to PSG throughout the match.
Sancho, on loan from Manchester United, had a stellar game and could have registered several assists if his teammates had converted their chances. Instead, it was Füllkrug’s powerful strike that found the back of the net, giving Dortmund the lead. The Germany striker scored from a precise pass over the top by Nico Schlotterbeck.
Dortmund dominated the first half, but PSG threatened in the second half. Kylian Mbappé and Achraf Hakimi both struck the woodwork in the same sequence, while Fabian Ruiz missed a golden opportunity by heading wide.
Despite the narrow margin, Dortmund heads to Paris with a crucial advantage. A draw in the return leg would be enough for them to advance to the final. PSG will face an uphill battle in the second leg, considering Dortmund’s solid performance.
Sancho expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play at Dortmund and looks forward to carrying this momentum into the next game. The winger remained focused on the present, hinting at a possible permanent move to Dortmund, although his future remains uncertain.
Enrique: Result Doesn’t Change Our Approach PSG manager Luis Enrique said the following:
“We have nothing to lose now. We were always going to aim for a win regardless of the outcome. The atmosphere was great for both teams, and in Paris, our fans will back us.
“Our strategy was to press and contain their attacks from the right, as well as defend against long balls. Dortmund is a well-organized team.
“We were less aggressive in the first half but played differently in the second.”
Terzic: We Earned the Win Borussia Dortmund head coach Edin Terzic commented:
“It was a well-deserved victory and a solid team effort.
“Both teams had chances to score more goals, so the result feels fair. We put in a lot of effort, which is needed in a match like this. Earning a trip to Wembley takes hard work.
“We only need a draw in the second leg, but we’re aiming for another win next week. We have a small advantage and a great opportunity.”
A vital Kobel clean sheet ⛔
Donnarumma denies Sabitzer 🧤@TurkishAirlines || #UCLsaves pic.twitter.com/yziSrOLZBb— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 1, 2024
