Paris Saint-Germain secured a historic qualification for the Champions League quarter-finals after defeating Liverpool in a penalty shootout at Anfield. Luis Enrique’s team displayed character and determination to overcome the Reds, who had been considered the best team of the season so far. In a high-intensity match, PSG withstood Liverpool’s pressure, forcing a penalty shootout where a crucial substitution made all the difference.

With less than a minute remaining in extra time, Luis Enrique made a bold yet strategic decision: he brought on Gonçalo Ramos solely to take a penalty. Without touching the ball in open play, the Portuguese striker stepped up with total confidence and converted a crucial spot-kick, proving his coach’s decision to be a masterstroke.

PSG had already put in a solid performance throughout the 120 minutes. With a physical and intense approach, the Parisian side managed to control Liverpool, thanks to a dominant midfield featuring Vitinha and an outstanding João Neves. Additionally, Ousmane Dembélé’s early goal forced the English side to chase the game, while the French team held firm against constant attacks, with Gianluigi Donnarumma making key saves.

The penalty shootout was nearly flawless for PSG. All Parisian players converted their kicks, while for Liverpool, Darwin Núñez and Curtis Jones missed theirs, sealing the Reds’ elimination. In this decisive moment, Ramos' introduction proved to be a perfect call by Luis Enrique, who trusted the Portuguese forward’s composure to deliver from the spot.

A Team with a New Identity

This victory not only sends PSG into the quarter-finals but also reinforces the idea that Luis Enrique’s team has evolved, gaining a level of competitiveness that was previously lacking in the Champions League. With a squad no longer built around big-name stars but rather committed and disciplined players, the Parisian club has shown it can compete with Europe’s best and win in tough environments like Anfield.

Now, PSG awaits the winner between Aston Villa and Club Brugge to determine their next opponent. With a team that has learned to suffer and a coach who makes decisive calls, the Parisians are emerging as serious title contenders. The last-second substitution of Ramos is just one example of the new PSG—a team built on determination, strategy, and a winning mentality.