PSG reach the Champions League Round of 16

February 26, 2026 / 8:53 PM

Sharjah 24 – AFP: Paris Saint-Germain secured their place in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 after a 2–2 draw with AS Monaco, advancing thanks to a 3–2 away victory in the first leg of the playoff tie.

First-half advantage for Monaco

Monaco struck just before halftime, with Magnus Akliouche finding the net in the 45th minute to give the hosts the lead and spark hopes of a comeback.

PSG turn the tide

The reigning French champions responded in the second half. Brazilian captain Marquinhos equalized in the 60th minute, before Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia put PSG ahead six minutes later (66), shifting the momentum firmly in their favor.

Late drama and red card

Monaco’s challenge became even tougher after Mamadou Coulibaly was sent off for a second yellow card (55, 59). Despite being reduced to ten men, the hosts managed to snatch a stoppage-time equalizer through substitute Jordan Teze (90+1).

However, the 2–2 draw was not enough to overturn the first-leg deficit, as PSG advanced on aggregate to the Round of 16.