PSG vs. Liverpool in Champions League: A History of Thrilling Clashes

Liverpool and PSG have only faced each other four times in official European competitions, yet their encounters are packed with history. From the 1996-97 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup semifinal, where PSG eliminated Liverpool, to their dramatic clash in the 2018-19 Champions League group stage—when Roberto Firmino became a last-minute hero at Anfield (3-2)—this rivalry has seen its fair share of memorable moments.

A Look Back at Their European Encounters

1996-97 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup Semifinal

The first official meeting between PSG and Liverpool came in the semifinals of the 1996-97 Cup Winners’ Cup. PSG dominated the first leg in Paris, securing a 3-0 victory with goals from Leonardo, Cauet, and Leroy. In the return leg at Anfield, Liverpool fought back with a 2-0 win (goals from Robbie Fowler and Mark Wright), but it wasn’t enough to overturn the deficit. PSG, under coach Ricardo Gomes, advanced to the final, where they lost 1-0 to Barcelona (Ronaldo scoring the decisive penalty).

Interestingly, that Barcelona team featured Luis Enrique—now PSG’s head coach—who lifted the trophy alongside Pep Guardiola under manager Sir Bobby Robson.

2018-19 Champions League Group Stage

After a 21-year gap, PSG and Liverpool met again in the Champions League group stage of the 2018-19 season.

September 18, 2018 – Anfield Thriller

Liverpool secured a dramatic 3-2 victory with Roberto Firmino scoring the match-winner in stoppage time (92’). Daniel Sturridge (30’) and James Milner (36’ penalty) also found the net for the Reds, while Thomas Meunier (40’) and Kylian Mbappé (83’) scored for PSG.

November 28, 2018 – PSG’s Revenge in Paris

PSG responded with a 2-1 win at Parc des Princes. Juan Bernat (13’) and Neymar (37’) put the Parisians ahead, while James Milner’s penalty (45’+1) was Liverpool’s only response. PSG topped Group C, but were eliminated in the Round of 16 by Manchester United, while Liverpool went on to win the Champions League by defeating Tottenham 2-0 in the final.

PSG vs. Liverpool: A New Chapter in 2024-25 Champions League

Now, the two sides are set to renew their rivalry in the Champions League Round of 16:

First Leg: March 5, 2025 – Parc des Princes

Second Leg: March 11, 2025 – Anfield

With PSG still chasing their first-ever Champions League title and Liverpool boasting six European crowns, this clash promises to deliver another unforgettable chapter in their short but intense history.