Paris Saint-Germain managed to keep their hopes of reaching the Champions League knockout stage alive with a dramatic 1-1 draw against the Premier League side Newcastle United at Parc des Princes in Paris on Tuesday. The single point earned from the clash places them in the second spot of the Group F points table.
PSG star Kylian Mbappe has indeed remained true to his commitment to react well against Newcastle and Milan. The forward’s last-ditch penalty salvaged his side from elimination, courtesy of a controversial VAR decision. Newcastle striker Alexander Isak has also expressed his opinion on the matter.
Alexander Isak reacts to controversial Kylian Mbappé penalty
Newcastle United’s long-awaited Champions League return flagged off with a thrilling home win as they defeated the Parisians 4-1 in a historic victory at St James’ Park. However, a lengthy list of injuries has disrupted the English side with 13 players missing, posing challenges for Eddie Howe’s team to progress further in the competition.
Despite this, Newcastle had been on course to secure all three points in this crucial fixture in Paris, leading 1-0 until the 98th minute of added time. Newcastle striker Alexander Isak scored his maiden Champions League goal in the 24th minute through a rebound, guiding his side to a historic win and strengthening their chances for the Round of 16.
A controversial VAR decision spoiled the visitor’s evening, awarding PSG a last-minute penalty for an alleged handball in the box by Tino Livramento, where it seemed the ball first hit his chest before contacting his hands in a natural position. The on-field referee, however, thought otherwise.
Post-match, Newcastle striker Alexander Isak shared his views on the decision and the disappointing draw. He said, “Unfortunately for us to get a goal against us so late. We started defending our goal a bit too early, and they started creating chances.”
He added, “My first reaction was that it wasn’t, but I haven’t seen it back. Hopefully, if the penalty was given, then it should have been. We have to trust the refs’ on the penalty call.”
Kylian Mbappe speaks on UCL draw vs Newcastle
The Frenchman once again stepped up to the occasion following the contentious handball claims from PSG, and the VAR decision came in their favor. Captain Kylian Mbappe slotted the ball into the net from the spot-kick in the dying minutes of the game, rescuing his side with a single point at home, which was enough to avoid elimination from the competition.
Kylian Mbappe, arguably the best player in the world currently as dubbed by his coach Luis Enrique, revealed his thoughts after securing a draw with a stoppage-time equalizer, “You can be better & not win!”
The forward claimed that they were the better team, creating many chances but they couldn’t manage to win. Next, they face Dortmund away in the final Matchday, aiming to top the group with a victory.
