Sports - PSG fight back against Monaco to reach Champions League round of 16
France 24
by L'Equipe TVFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
PSG secured their place in the Champions League round of 16 with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Monaco at the Parc des Princes, despite showing moments of vulnerability. The French champions, who had already won 3-1 away in the first leg, relied on Marquinhos' equalizer in the 60th minute, just two minutes after Monaco was reduced to ten men due to a red card for Ben Zemirane. This aggregate victory (5-4) ensures PSG's progression, though their defensive frailties remain a concern ahead of their next challenge—a clash with either Barcelona or Chelsea, set to be determined in Friday's draw.
The match highlighted PSG's ability to turn pressure into points, even when struggling to maintain consistent dominance. Monaco's 10th man situation compounded their task, but the visitors still managed to level twice, showcasing their resilience. Meanwhile, Real Madrid continued their unstoppable form by defeating Benfica 2-1 on aggregate, with goals from Aurélien Tchouaméni and Vinicius Jr. This win solidifies their status as tournament favorites and reinforces their reputation for reliability in European competition.
Galatasaray made history by qualifying for the round of 16 for the first time since 2014, overcoming Juventus' late surge. Their 3-2 victory on aggregate was a testament to their fighting spirit and ability to hold on under pressure. In another upset, Atalanta defied expectations by overturning a 2-0 deficit from the first leg to defeat Borussia Dortmund 4-1, securing Italy's only representation in the next stage.
These results underscore the unpredictability of European football, where even against the odds, teams can rise to the occasion. PSG's progression is particularly significant as they aim to
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/26/2026