Paris Saint-Germain v Manchester City, UEFA Champions League 2015-16 - It was an entertaining match at Parc des Princes, Paris

Ten Sports didn’t show the match between Real Madrid and Vfl Wolfsburg live and for which I had to witness the clash at Parc des Princes, Paris. It was the battle between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Manchester City. PSG are one of the most underrated teams in Europe. Critics hardly mention their name while talking about the probable champion of this year’s Champions League. But, mind you, they have some of the world’s most exciting talents who posses all the qualities to lift the title in style.

In the quarterfinal clash against Manchester United, I expected them to finish in a commanding fashion, but the end result was a 2-2 with Man. City taking the advantage of two away goals. Thankfully, I watched the game. It was not at all dull affair like the Real Madrid’s one. The worldwide television viewers were able to enjoy some exciting football.

David Luiz’s poor defending

Till today, I keep on wondering, who the hell advised David Luiz to become a central defender? David Luiz’s ability as a central defender has always proved handy not only for the Selecao but for his club team as well. He was booked within 15 seconds, won a dubious penalty minutes later, then made a fool of himself in the build-up to Man City's first goal and just before half-time, made a strange attempt to cut out Fernandinho’s pass. It was overall a comical show and at the same time, an absolute irritation for the eyes. His price tag is 50 million pounds? Are you kidding me? That’s a waste of huge amount money man! Even, the CBF must think twice before including a school kid like David Luiz in the side.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic was dull 

Zlatan is the X-factor in this PSG side, but he was found wanting against Man. City as he not only squandered some wonderful opportunities, but at the same time, found it tough to break the Man. City defence. First of all, he failed to give his team the brightest of starts by missing a penalty which was well saved by Joe Hart and then, secondly,  blasted a shot well over the bar after going one-on-one with the City keeper again.

But you know what? Players like Zlatan can utilize their experience well to utilize the moments smartly. Fernando’s poor back pass was deflected off Zlatan straight into an empty net, allowing him to equalise. You rarely see Zlatan to score such easy goals.

Manchester City’s defence was not up to the mark 

Man. City attacked whenever they found space, but their good works proved in vain due to a fragile back. The absence of Vincent Company was felt heavily and had Zlatan and co didn’t have a dull night, their centre backs would have been in big trouble. They were exposed with alarming regularity by PSG, who could hardly believe their luck when they were presented with a two-on-one break inside the opening 10 minutes. 

PSG need to lift their game up

PSG dominated the possessions. Passed the ball well and created opportunities, but like Man. City, their centre backs had not been good as well. While David Luiz invited more troubles, on the right flank, Serge Aurier, the right back who presented Fernandinho,  with a golden chance by fluffing a routine clearance with 17 minutes left. I must say, at this level, you are not allowed to make such mistakes. PSG need to lift their game up a bit more and for this, they need to fix their defence.

Kevin de Bruyne and Fernandinho, the two heroes of Man. City  

How badly Man. City were missing Kevin de Bruyne! The Sky Blues always depended more on Yaya Toure’s charismatic qualities in big games, but his absence provided them the services of De Bruyne who was used as a number 10 and behind Aguero. He was involved in City’s best moments in attack. He passed the ball intelligently, dropping into space between the lines and opening the scoring with a wicked shot. Surely, David Luiz should have stopped that. 

While the other Brazilians, playing in Europe, earned extreme criticisms for their dull display, Fernandinho seemed to have salvaged the pride of his country by putting up an inspiring performance in Paris. According to Squawka Football Fernandinho’s game by number in Paris:  88% pass accuracy, 4 interceptions, 4 blocks, 3 tackles won, 1 chance created and 1 goal scored. That’s a delightful display and again, he should be thankful to PSG’s right back for his goal. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar