Mbappe Hat-Trick Helps PSG Thrash Barcelona in Champions League
Young Striker Shines in 4-1 First-Leg Victory
Paris, France (February 16, 2021) -
Kylian Mbappe put in a stunning performance, scoring a hat-trick, as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured a resounding 4-1 victory over Barcelona in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie on Tuesday.
The French forward became only the third player, after Ferenc Puskas and Faustino Asprilla, to score a Champions League hat-trick against Barcelona. Mbappe's goals gave PSG a commanding lead heading into the second leg at Camp Nou on March 10.
Lionel Messi gave Barcelona the lead in the opener, but Mbappe equalized just before halftime. He then gave PSG the lead with a penalty early in the second half before completing his hat-trick with a brilliant solo effort.
Moise Kean added a fourth for PSG to put the French side in an excellent position to reach the quarterfinals. Barcelona will need to produce a miraculous comeback at home to overturn the three-goal deficit.
The result continues PSG's impressive form in the Champions League this season, having won all six of their group stage matches. Barcelona, meanwhile, have now lost three of their last four games in all competitions.
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