This Wednesday evening, Paris Saint-Germain won 4-0 against Atalanta in the first matchday of the 2025-2026 Champions League at the Parc des Princes. Here are the highlights and lowlights of this victory.
Highs –
The strength of the team.
PSG wasn’t perfect throughout the entire match; there were a few moments when they seemed to lose focus. That’s understandable, as the squad isn’t yet at its peak physically. But this shouldn’t overshadow all the good things they did, both offensively and defensively. It’s rare to have such a strong team; we must take full advantage of it. Winning a Champions League match so comfortably isn’t something everyone can do.
Kvaratskhelia in good form.
The 24-year-old Georgian forward had some difficult performances at the start of the season, but we saw him improve during the international break. He confirmed on Wednesday evening that he is regaining his rhythm. More incisive and precise, he was a nightmare for Atalanta and scored a beautiful goal. This will boost his confidence even further.
Marquinhos scores again in the Champions League.
It’s not his primary role, but it’s always nice to see the 31-year-old center back and captain score. It hadn’t happened for him in the Champions League in 4 years. It’s a great pleasure and a well-deserved reward for all his hard work. It also comes 12 years after his first goal for PSG against Olympiacos, a nice nod to history.
Ramos makes an impact.
Lacking confidence, and with his role as a substitute perhaps affecting him, Gonçalo Ramos managed to score after coming on as a substitute. This can only benefit him, and therefore PSG. Because Paris will still need him. Let’s hope this goal will allow the striker to show more of his qualities in the future. Disappointments –
Lows –
Neves leaves the field with an injury.
There wasn’t much else negative about this match. But this injury is a cause for concern. Fortunately, it seems to be minor for now. We hope this will be confirmed by the next medical update.
Barcola’s missed penalty.
It’s not a major issue, but it’s the only blemish in PSG’s otherwise excellent performance. Barcola took his penalty in a strange way, with hardly any run-up, and his weak shot was easily saved by the opposing goalkeeper. It’s unfortunate, especially given Paris’s recent struggles with penalty kicks.
