PSG Triumphs Over Barcelona; Hojlund Shines for Napoli in Champions League

Paris Saint-Germain secured a significant 2-1 victory against Barcelona in the latest round of the UEFA Champions League on October 1, 2025. This win marks the third time PSG has defeated Barcelona in European competitions, following previous successes in 2021 and 2024. Despite missing several key players, including Marquinhos, Ousmane Dembélé, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, PSG showcased resilience and skill.

Barcelona initially took the lead when Ferran Torres converted a cross from Marcus Rashford in the 19th minute, setting a new club record by scoring in their 45th consecutive match. However, PSG responded before half-time with a goal from Senny Mayulu, a 19-year-old talent. The decisive moment came late in the match when substitute Gonçalo Ramos scored a last-minute winner, delighting PSG head coach Luis Enrique on his return to Barcelona’s Camp Nou.

Hojlund’s Heroics for Napoli

In another exciting fixture, Rasmus Hojlund, on loan from Manchester United, scored twice to lead Napoli to a 2-1 victory over Sporting Lisbon. This win marked Napoli’s first Champions League victory of the season. Former Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne assisted both of Hojlund’s goals, while Luis Suarez converted a penalty for the Portuguese side.

English Clubs Enjoy Mixed Results

English clubs experienced varied outcomes in their Champions League matches. Arsenal continued their perfect start to the tournament with a 2-0 win over Olympiakos. Gabriel Martinelli opened the scoring in the 12th minute, and Bukayo Saka sealed the victory in added time.

Meanwhile, Newcastle United celebrated a commanding 4-0 victory against Union St-Gilloise in Brussels, marking their first away win in the competition since 2003. Summer signing Nick Woltemade maintained his impressive form with a goal, while Anthony Gordon netted two penalties, and Harvey Barnes added a fourth.

In contrast, Manchester City faced a challenging match against AS Monaco, ending in a dramatic 2-2 draw. Star striker Erling Haaland continued his remarkable season by scoring twice, bringing his Champions League tally to 52 goals in just 50 matches. However, Monaco equalized late with a penalty from Eric Dier, leading to a hard-fought draw.

Additional Matches and Highlights

In other matches, PSV Eindhoven drew 1-1 with Bayer Leverkusen, while Villarreal and Juventus ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw. Georges Mikautadze initially put Villarreal ahead, but Federico Gatti and Francisco Conceicao turned the game on its head before Renato Veiga salvaged a last-minute equalizer for Villarreal.

Finally, Borussia Dortmund triumphed over Athletic Bilbao with a resounding 4-1 victory, and Qarabag made history as the first Azerbaijani team to achieve back-to-back Champions League wins, defeating Copenhagen 2-0.

The Champions League continues to deliver thrilling action, with teams vying for glory on the European stage.