Time is running out for Paris Saint-Germain to pull a goal back ahead of the second leg. With 15 minutes left, Lionel Messi's late first half goal is still the difference as Barcelona lead 1-0.
Paris Saint-Germain vs. Barcelona, 2013 UEFA Champions League: Time running out on PSG
Alexis Sanchez has come to life with Lionel Messi out but as per usual with the Chilean striker this season, he's just not showing precision with his final moves. Sanchez wasted a one-on-one chance in the 61st minute, taking a few too many touches and then misplayed a beautiful cross from Cesc Fabregas in the 65th minute, allowing Salvatore Sirigu to make an easy save.
Blaise Matuidi tangled with Andres Iniesta in the 66th minute and basically had to bring down the midfielder to avoid him breaking in on goal. The referee showed Matuidi a yellow card and he’ll now miss the second leg due to card accumulation.
Carlo Ancelotti brought on Jeremy Menez for Ezequiel Lavezzi in the 68th minute to try to give his side a boost as they looked increasingly out of ideas.
PSG did finally generate a chance in the 71st minute but Maxwell decision to shoot rather than pass didn’t appear to be the right choice, especially with Menez and Zlatan Ibrahimovic lurking in space. Victor Valdés made the save on the shot, continuing his extremely strong performance.
Javier Mascherano picked up a yellow card in the 75th minute for an unnecessary foul on Menez and will now miss the second leg in Barcelona.
We’re 15 minutes from the full time whistle in Paris and Barcelona are likely feeling very good about where things stand.
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