PSG 1-0 Girona: Summary, highlights & the goal in video

On Wednesday, 18 September, Paris Saint-Germain kicked off their European adventure by hosting Girona at the Parc des Princes for Matchday 1 of the new UEFA Champions League format.

PSG entered the game in fine domestic form, boasting a perfect record of four wins and 16 goals in Ligue 1. Girona, on the other hand, had struggled in La Liga, managing only two wins from their first five matches.

PSG 1-0 Girona: Summary, highlights & the goal in video

Luis Enrique fielded a strong starting XI, with Safonov in goal, Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, and Nuno Mendes in defence. Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, and Fabian Ruiz took charge in midfield, while Dembele, Asensio, and Barcola led the attack. Girona countered with a defensive setup, featuring Gazzaniga in goal and a backline of Martinez, Lopez, Krejci, and Gutierrez. Martin, Romeu, and van de Beek held midfield, while Tsygankov, Gil, and Stuani formed the front line.

PSG dominated the early stages, controlling possession and creating dangerous moments. Dembele and Zaire-Emery came close, but their efforts were not enough to break the deadlock.

Here’s the video recap of the match highlights:

If the video above doesn't work, you can watch the highlights by clicking here.

Despite 73% possession by the 30th minute, PSG struggled to convert their control into real chances. They had just five shots and none on target. In the 38th minute, Marco Asensio was forced off with a suspected injury, replaced by Randal Kolo Muani.

The second half was more of the same, with PSG pressing hard but missing key opportunities. Dembele had the clearest chance in the 55th minute, but his indecision cost PSG a likely goal.

Just as the game seemed destined for a draw, Nuno Mendes saved PSG's night with a late strike. His shot, while not particularly strong, was mishandled by Girona's goalkeeper, gifting PSG a 1-0 victory.

While PSG secured the win, it was far from convincing, and they'll need to sharpen their attack in the games to come.