PSG 2-1 Liverpool: 5 Hits and Flops

Neymar and Mbappe wheel away to celebrate Bernat's opening goal during their 2-1 win over Liverpool
Neymar and Mbappe wheel away to celebrate Bernat's opening goal during their 2-1 win over Liverpool

#1 Hit: Neymar

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Neymar's combination play with Mbappe in the final third was often frightening
Neymar's combination play with Mbappe in the final third was often frightening

Last but certainly not least, it's matchwinner Neymar. He was in the right place at the right time to score the second and although his decision-making was erratic at times, his link-up play alongside Kylian Mbappé was a joy to watch in transition. The pair created many half-chances and ran the Reds' backline ragged with their intelligent movement but importantly, Neymar showed why he's the star of this team.

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It was his marauding run forward, deep in his own half, which proved pivotal during the build-up to PSG's second, after the visitors conceded possession and he accelerated with purpose. Cavani's close-range effort was saved by Alisson but fell conveniently for the 26-year-old to convert - his 14th goal of the season across all competitions.

In the second-half, things were more difficult as Liverpool pressed for an equaliser and manager Thomas Tuchel looked to change things both tactically and with personnel.

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He had some nervy moments after the break and some questionable decisions were made on his part, during a busy evening's work. It was by no means a perfect display, having been dispossessed on six occasions. Perhaps it's also telling that he was fouled six times too. With four shots, two completed key passes and dribbles, he was constantly looking to get on the ball. Too much.

Neymar's eagerness to constantly be on the ball saw him focused upon by Liverpool players throughout
Neymar's eagerness to constantly be on the ball saw him focused upon by Liverpool players throughout

Sometimes he must display more restraint, calm down and understand that it's not all about him. There were times where Mbappe could have burst forward on a galloping run but instead patiently waited for Neymar to make himself a passing option. It's clearly something they had agreed in training beforehand. The same goes for Cavani, who was fairly isolated and quite muted in the final third, despite making some intelligent runs and providing another headache for Liverpool defenders to mark.

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Whether that be his weight of pass, making the right decision altogether or a seeming desire to go it alone and run into traffic, Neymar remains a frustrating player to watch. There's a player with his undeniable talent and ability to shine - but for PSG to achieve more success in this competition, he must be more unselfish and equally decisive in the knockout rounds. This display, as good as he was, proved a prime example.

Stats' source: WhoScored

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