In the world of football, few clubs have faced as much scrutiny and backlash as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Often criticized for their lavish spending and perceived lack of substance on Europe’s grandest stage, PSG have long struggled to justify their lofty ambitions. Owned by Qatar Sports Investments since 2011, the club has become synonymous with extravagant signings, yet their Champions League campaigns have been defined more by heartbreak than triumph.
This narrative, however, took a dramatic turn in Lisbon,
where PSG dismantled RB Leipzig 3-0 to reach their first-ever Champions League
final. At the heart of this transformation was Neymar, the Brazilian superstar
who finally seemed to embrace the weight of expectation and showcase his
brilliance on the biggest stage.
The Neymar Dilemma
When Neymar left Barcelona for PSG in 2017, the move was met
with scepticism. Critics questioned the wisdom of trading Camp Nou’s prestige
for Ligue 1, often derided as a “farmer’s league.” Over the ensuing seasons,
Neymar’s time in Paris was marred by injuries, controversies, and a perceived
lack of focus. His public spats with teammates, persistent transfer rumours, and
underwhelming performances in crucial Champions League matches led many to
wonder if the Brazilian was squandering his potential.
But this season, Neymar seemed determined to silence his
detractors. Gone were the distractions and theatrics; in their place stood a
player intent on leading PSG to glory. Against RB Leipzig, Neymar’s tactical
intelligence and relentless work rate were on full display, even if his
finishing touch deserted him at times.
Julian Nagelsmann’s
Tactical Gambit
RB Leipzig, led by the precocious Julian Nagelsmann, entered
the semifinal with confidence after eliminating Atletico Madrid. Known for his
innovative tactics, Nagelsmann relied on a back three of Nordi Mukiele, Dayot
Upamecano, and Lukas Klostermann to build from the back and dictate the tempo.
Upamecano, in particular, had shone in the quarterfinals, and his duel with
Neymar promised to be a pivotal battle.
PSG countered with a fluid front three of Neymar, Kylian
Mbappé, and Ángel Di María. Neymar occupied a central role, pressing high and
using his cover shadow to block passing lanes, effectively neutralizing
Upamecano’s ability to dictate play. This forced Leipzig into uncomfortable
situations, with their buildup disrupted and their defensive structure
stretched.
Neymar’s Tactical
Mastery
From the outset, Neymar’s influence was evident. His
relentless pressing unsettled Leipzig’s goalkeeper Péter Gulácsi, while his
positioning between the lines created chaos in the German side’s defensive setup.
Neymar’s presence forced Upamecano to push higher into midfield, disrupting
Leipzig’s shape and leaving gaps for PSG to exploit.
In the 13th minute, Neymar’s ingenuity led to PSG’s opener.
Winning a free kick on the right, he combined with Di María to deliver a
pinpoint cross that Marquinhos headed home. It was a moment of brilliance that
encapsulated Neymar’s ability to orchestrate from deeper positions.
Despite hitting the woodwork twice—once with an audacious
curling free kick and another after being played through by Mbappé—Neymar’s
confidence never wavered. His movement and passing continually opened up spaces
for his teammates, allowing PSG to dominate proceedings.
The Turning
Point
Leipzig’s attempts to bypass PSG’s press through the flanks
were thwarted by Ander Herrera and Leandro Paredes, who provided defensive
cover and launched quick transitions. Neymar’s deeper positioning further
disrupted Leipzig’s rhythm, forcing Kevin Kampl and Marcel Sabitzer into
errors.
In the 42nd minute, a defensive lapse by Gulácsi gifted PSG
their second goal. Paredes intercepted a misplaced pass and found Neymar, whose
deft touch set up Di María for a clinical finish.
The third goal came in the second half, highlighting PSG’s
ability to capitalize on transitions. Mukiele’s slip while advancing allowed
PSG to counter, with Juan Bernat heading home Di María’s cross to seal the
victory.
Neymar’s Redemption
Arc
While Di María was deservedly named Man of the Match,
Neymar’s influence was undeniable. His tactical awareness, off-the-ball
movement, and ability to draw defenders out of position were instrumental in
PSG’s success. Though he failed to score, Neymar’s performance was a testament
to his maturity and willingness to sacrifice personal glory for the team’s
benefit.
A Historic Moment for
PSG
With this victory, PSG reached their first Champions League
final, silencing critics who had long dismissed them as a team of individuals
rather than a cohesive unit. Neymar’s transformation from a mercurial talent to
a leader was central to this achievement, as was the team’s collective
commitment to Mauricio Pochettino’s tactical plan.
As PSG prepare for the final, one thing is clear: Neymar is
no longer lost in the “forest of France.” Instead, he stands at the forefront
of a team poised to make history. The boy from Brazil has finally come of age,
and PSG’s dreams of European glory have never felt closer.
Thank You
Faisal Caesar
