Live Blog! Bayer Leverkusen vs PSG in the Champions League
Paris Saint-Germain visit Leverkusen in search of a third straight win in the Champions League — and the return of their Ballon d’Or star adds even more fire.
Dembélé returns — and with a goal from the Ballon d’Or winner
Leverkusen pull one back with a brace from Aleix García
PSG score their fifth with a goal from Nuno Mendes
Doué’s brace turns it into a rout
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia extends the lead, 3-1
Doué scores a brilliant goal and PSG go back in front
Leverkusen equalized after a controversial play
Leverkusen miss the penalty to equalize
PSG take an early lead with Pacho’s goal
The match kicks off
Leverkusen's Starting XI
PSG's Starting XI
When and Where the Match Takes Place
The Bayer Leverkusen vs Paris Saint-Germain clash takes place today at 3:00 PM ET (12:00 PM PT) at the BayArena in Leverkusen, Germany, as part of Matchday 3 of the UEFA Champions League. Spanish referee Jesús Gil Manzano will oversee the action between two sides fighting for vital points in Group Stage play.
Bayer Leverkusen’s Preview
Bayer Leverkusen come into this match sitting 25th in the overall standings with two points after drawing both of their opening games — a 2–2 away result against FC Copenhagen, and a 1–1 home tie against PSV Eindhoven. The German side, managed by Kasper Hjulmand, are under pressure to earn their first victory and keep their knockout stage hopes alive.
Playing at home gives Leverkusen a slight edge, but facing the defending champions is a major test. They’ll need to show far more clinical finishing if they want to challenge PSG’s high-flying attack.
Paris Saint-Germain’s Preview
Paris Saint-Germain arrive in top form, sitting third in the standings with six points from two convincing wins: a 4–0 demolition of Atalanta at the Parc des Princes, and a statement 2–1 victory away to Barcelona. Under Luis Enrique, the French giants look sharp, composed, and ready to defend their crown.
Momentum is on PSG’s side, and with their Ballon D’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé back from injury, expectations are sky-high. The French winger could see his first minutes since lifting the award, and his speed and creativity may once again separate PSG from the rest.
Key Players
For Bayer Leverkusen, the spotlight shines on Alejandro Grimaldo. The Spanish playmaker is the team’s creative heartbeat — everything flows through his feet. His ability to dictate tempo and exploit spaces could be decisive in keeping Leverkusen alive against a superior rival.
On the PSG side, all eyes will be on Ousmane Dembélé, whose long-awaited return gives the champions a massive boost. After nearly two months out, the Frenchman’s dribbling and flair could tilt the balance in PSG’s favor once again.
Match Keys
For Leverkusen, the key lies in maintaining discipline and closing down PSG’s passing lanes. Quick transitions and efficiency in front of goal will be crucial if they hope to spring an upset. Meanwhile, PSG will aim to control possession and unleash their dynamic front line, led by Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia.
The tactical duel between Kasper Hjulmand and Luis Enrique promises to be fascinating — two minds from the Spanish school, facing off in a battle of philosophies.
Final Outlook
Despite playing at home, Bayer Leverkusen enter the match as clear underdogs against the reigning European champions. PSG’s depth, form, and firepower make them overwhelming favorites to continue their perfect run in the Champions League. Anything other than a Parisian victory would be a major surprise.













