The match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Newcastle United in the UEFA Champions League on November 28, 2023, was a gripping encounter that ended in a 1-1 draw. The game, which took place at the iconic Parc des Princes, showcased some remarkable statistics that tell a compelling story of contrasting styles and strategies.
Key Match Overview
Full-Time Score: PSG 1–1 Newcastle United
First Half: Newcastle led 1-0, with Isak scoring the opener in the 24th minute.
PSG’s Equalizer: Kylian Mbappé converted a penalty in the dying moments of the match (90+8′) to level the score.
Match Statistics Breakdown
Possession:
PSG: 72%
Newcastle United: 28%
Total Shots:
PSG: 31
Newcastle United: 5
Shots on Target:
PSG: 7
Newcastle United: 2
Off Target Shots:
PSG: 14
Newcastle United: 2
Corners:
PSG: 6
Newcastle United: 2
Pass Success Rate:
PSG: 92%
Newcastle United: 72%
Aerial Duels Won:
PSG: 4
Newcastle United: 7
Clearances:
PSG: 5
Newcastle United: 38
Fouls:
PSG: 14
Newcastle United: 7
Yellow Cards:
PSG: 6
Newcastle United: 3
Breakdown of Team Performance
PSG: Dominating Possession, but Struggling to Finish
PSG controlled the ball throughout the game, maintaining a substantial possession advantage at 72%. However, their offensive play lacked the efficiency seen in some of their previous fixtures. With 31 shots but only 7 on target, their ability to break through Newcastle’s defensive lines seemed inconsistent. This dominance did not immediately translate into goals, as Newcastle’s defense, despite being under pressure, cleared many attacks.
Newcastle United: Strong Defensive Showing
Newcastle’s strategy focused on defense and counterattacks. They managed to keep PSG’s attack at bay for most of the game, with 38 clearances compared to PSG’s 5. Their defensive resilience was clear, especially considering the heavy pressure applied by PSG’s forwards. Despite having only 28% possession, Newcastle capitalized on a well-executed counterattack, with Isak finding the net in the 24th minute. However, they could not hold onto the lead as PSG’s late penalty leveled the match.
Player Contributions
Kylian Mbappé (PSG): The standout player for PSG, scoring the crucial equalizer with a calm penalty in the 90+8 minute. Mbappé’s speed and influence on the game were critical in pressuring Newcastle’s defense.
Alexander Isak (Newcastle): The Swedish forward was the hero for Newcastle in the first half, scoring the only goal for his team with a clinical finish.
Tactical Insights
PSG’s Attack vs. Newcastle’s Defense: PSG’s attacking game was marked by heavy possession and numerous attempts on goal, but their efficiency in converting chances was lacking. On the other hand, Newcastle’s defense was well-organized, as they restricted PSG’s forwards and focused on clearing the ball out of danger.
Set-Piece Efficiency: Despite having more corners, PSG did not capitalize on set-pieces as expected. Newcastle, though, was able to absorb the pressure and maintain discipline in their defensive structure.
Newcastle United: Strong Defensive Showing
Despite having only 28% possession, Newcastle capitalized on their few chances. Alexander Isak’s early goal (24′) was the standout moment for the Magpies, showing their ability to make the most of limited possession. Their defensive efforts were aided by goalkeeper Nick Pope, who made key saves to preserve their lead. Even with limited shots—just five attempts, including two on target—Newcastle remained competitive by staying solid at the back and being efficient when it mattered
Player Highlights
Kylian Mbappé (PSG): The French forward played a key role, not only in his team’s offensive build-up but also in scoring the crucial penalty in stoppage time. His performance was instrumental in salvaging a point for PSG, though he might have been disappointed with his team’s inability to break through Newcastle’s defense during the earlier stages of the match.
Alexander Isak (Newcastle United): The Swedish striker put Newcastle ahead with a clinical finish in the first half. His ability to make the most of a rare attacking opportunity exemplified his clinical nature in front of goal. Despite not having many chances, Isak’s performance showed that Newcastle could be dangerous on the counter.
Tactical Analysis: PSG’s Possession Play vs Newcastle’s Counterattacks
PSG’s dominance in possession was expected, considering their star-studded squad. However, the team’s inability to translate this possession into goals was a key talking point. Their 31 shots reflect the pressure they applied, but the fact that many were blocked or off-target highlights a potential weakness in their offensive execution.
Chicken Run Mrs Tweedy On the other hand, Newcastle’s approach was a well-executed counter-attacking game plan. By staying compact defensively, they limited PSG’s creative outlets and relied on the occasional breakaway to create scoring opportunities. Their efficiency in defense was reflected in the 38 clearances made throughout the match
Key Stats Recap
Total Possession: PSG 72% | Newcastle United 28%
Shots (Total): PSG 31 | Newcastle United 5
Shots on Target: PSG 7 | Newcastle United 2
Corners: PSG 6 | Newcastle United 2
Pass Success Rate: PSG 92% | Newcastle United 72%
Clearances: PSG 5 | Newcastle United 38
Yellow Cards: PSG 6 | Newcastle United 3
QPR vs Leeds United This encounter between PSG and Newcastle United was a perfect display of tactical contrast. PSG’s attacking might met with Newcastle’s defensive resilience. While PSG dominated possession and had more shots, Newcastle proved that sometimes a solid defense and a quick counter can make all the difference. The late penalty from Mbappé meant that both teams shared the spoils in a match full of drama and excitement.
FAQs
Q1: Who scored the goals in PSG vs Newcastle United?
Kylian Mbappé scored the equalizing penalty for PSG, while Alexander Isak scored the opening goal for Newcastle United.
Q2: What was the final score of PSG vs Newcastle United?
The match ended in a 1-1 draw.
Q3: How many shots did PSG have in the match?
PSG had a total of 31 shots, with 7 on target.
Q4: How many clearances did Newcastle United make?
Newcastle United made 38 clearances during the match.
Q5: What was the possession split between PSG and Newcastle?
PSG had 72% possession, while Newcastle had 28%.
This encounter highlighted PSG’s struggle to finish their chances, while Newcastle’s defense showed its strength.
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