FifthThe third minute of stoppage time, Kylian Mbappe suddenly exploded: stand on the right, irresistible attack and a minute finish in the far corner – in Prinzenpark Paris there was no universal goal from the “alien”.
Lionel Messi was not unlucky, nor Neymar tried, but it was the wonderful Mbappe who made the difference in Paris Saint-Germain’s 1-0 win (0-0) in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 against Real Madrid. Mbappe, of course, who has proven to current and future employers that he is an absolute difference player. PSG are in excellent shape for the second match on March 9th.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has admitted the Frenchman is “unstoppable”, who wants the 23-year-old to be in his squad from the summer. Cost what you can. “Mamma Mia. He’s a foreigner. It’s a show with Kylian on and off the field,” Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma said in amazement: “Mbappe will decide whether he wants to stay with PSG or not. We enjoy every day with him.”
Only Mbappe, who continues to keep his plans secret, knows how many days Donnarumma & Co. will have this. After his presentation on Tuesday night, the striker said he had not yet made up his mind. But there are still many indications that he will fulfill his dream of moving to Real Madrid after his contract expires in June. “This match does not affect my future,” Mbappe said. “I know I am playing for one of the best teams in the world. I will give everything for the rest of the season.”
This also applies to the fans of the French capital club, who paid homage to their hero. Paris scored a total of 22 attempts for Real’s strong goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois – including a penalty kick from Messi (62). However, only the amazing Mbappe was able to beat him.
Given the hosts’ oppressive dominance, Real Madrid’s midfield strategist Toni Kroos was able to live with the result. “Even if it was unfortunate in the end, the result is still the best so far,” the 32-year-old said on Amazon Prime. “With the Bernabeu behind me, I wouldn’t rule out anything if it was 0-1.”
Mbappe, the 2018 world champion, also cautioned against being too euphoric about the second leg. “It’s not over yet. We know Madrid, they are among the best in the world,” said the exceptional player who could soon change his team.
