On February 25, 2026, Paris Saint ‑ Germain secured qualification for the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 after a dramatic 2 – 2 draw against AS Monaco at the iconic Parc des Princes. Holding a narrow 3 – 2 advantage from the first leg, PSG entered the match knowing that even a draw could be enough, but the contest proved far from simple. Monaco challenged them with intensity, creating moments of real tension. However, PSG managed the pressure and ultimately progressed with a 5 – 4 aggregate victory. The match featured late drama, a crucial red card, tactical adjustments, and momentum swings that kept supporters fully engaged until the final whistle confirmed their progression.
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Maghnes Akliouche Gives Monaco First-Half Lead
Monaco started confidently and executed their plan perfectly in the first half. Their breakthrough came in the 45th minute when young midfielder Maghnes Akliouche found space and finished clinically to give the visitors a 1 – 0 lead. The goal increased pressure on PSG and temporarily leveled the aggregate scoreline, giving Monaco real hope of pulling off a comeback.
Monaco’s disciplined defensive shape and quick counterattacks frustrated PSG for much of the first half, forcing the home side to rethink its attacking approach.
Red Card Changes the Momentum
The key turning point arrived in the 58th minute, when Monaco’s Mamadou Coulibaly was sent off after receiving his second yellow card. This dismissal left Monaco with ten players and completely shifted the momentum.
PSG immediately took advantage of the extra space. Their captain, Marquinhos, scored in the 60th minute, bringing the match level. Just six minutes later, star winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored again in the 66th minute, turning the game around and restoring PSG’s aggregate advantage.
Within minutes, PSG had transformed a losing situation into a winning one.
Jordan Teze’s Late Goal Adds Drama
Despite being down to ten men, Monaco refused to give up. Their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when defender Jordan Teze scored in the 90+1 minute, leveling the match at 2 – 2 on the night. Although the late goal created tension, Monaco still fell short on aggregate. PSG’s first-leg advantage ultimately proved decisive in determining the outcome.
Aggregate Advantage Sends PSG Through
Over the two legs, PSG showed resilience and efficiency when it mattered most. Their 5 – 4 aggregate victory highlights the importance of their away win in the first leg. The result confirms PSG’s place in the Champions League Round of 16, keeping their European title hopes alive. Meanwhile, Monaco exited the competition after pushing one of Europe’s strongest teams to the limit.
Interestingly, these two rivals will meet again very soon in Ligue 1 on March 6, 2026, once again at Parc des Princes. This upcoming domestic clash will give Monaco an immediate chance for revenge, while PSG will aim to continue their strong form.
This thrilling encounter once again demonstrated why PSG vs Monaco remains one of the most exciting fixtures in French football. PSG’s composure under pressure and ability to capitalize on key moments ultimately made the difference, while Monaco earned respect for their fighting spirit and determination until the very end.