Following their 0-3 defeat to Mallorca in Spain on Wednesday, PSG traveled to the other side of Europe for their second summer friendly. The change of scenery seemed to benefit the Parisian side, as they quickly silenced the home crowd with a composed opening goal in the second minute. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Dro Fernandez, and Ibrahim Mbaye orchestrated a fluid attack that culminated in a well-placed finish, giving PSG an early lead. Just one minute later, Kvaratskhelia forced a difficult save from Tom Heaton, confirming PSG’s determination to avoid a repeat of their previous outing.

The game took a different turn when Manchester United began to impose their rhythm. Despite the early setback, the Red Devils showed resilience, even as Mason Mount was forced off the field due to injury in the 19th minute. Bryan Mbeumo proved to be the most relentless player on the pitch, combining well with Amad Diallo. After a free-kick from Mbeumo was deflected by Matveï Safonov in the 20th minute, Diallo capitalized on a defensive error by Axel Koukaba to level the score at 32 minutes. Safonov was then beaten by a powerful free-kick from Mbeumo in the 38th minute, and Koukaba’s mistake under pressure allowed Diallo to test Safonov again just before halftime. Throughout the half, Kvaratskhelia remained PSG’s standout performer, carrying the team’s attacking momentum.

Portuguese duo and Marquinhos make an impact

In the second half, Manchester United grew more dangerous, with Mbeumo testing Safonov again in the 54th minute. A bold run from Safonov to intercept Joshua Zirkzee in the 72nd minute drew mixed reactions from the crowd, culminating in his substitution under a chorus of boos. The young Italian talent Alessandro Longoni, aged 18, stepped in but faced minimal pressure, demonstrating composure beyond his years.

Last Wednesday, Lucas Chevalier had replaced Safonov in goal, but this time, the former Lille player remained on the bench as several first-team players entered the field during the hour mark. Luis Enrique seized the opportunity to introduce his Portuguese talents—Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, and João Mendes—as well as Marquinhos, who all enjoyed around 30 minutes of action before the season’s curtain-raiser against Aston Villa on Wednesday.