Paris Saint-Germain reaffirmed their dominance in European football on Wednesday by defeating Aston Villa 2-1 in the UEFA Super Cup.
The Champions League holders, fresh off their triumph over Arsenal in May, claimed their second consecutive Super Cup title in Salzburg, Austria.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia fired PSG ahead in the 20th minute with a powerful near-post strike, after a spell of early Villa pressure. The French side’s attacking intensity nearly paid off again moments later, but Nuno Mendes’ cut-back narrowly missed his teammates in the box.
Aston Villa, Europa League champions, fielded a bold lineup featuring teenage debutant Brian Madjo in attack. After missing earlier chances, Madjo drew Villa level just before halftime, clinically finishing John McGinn’s cross with a left-footed shot into the roof of the net.
The second half saw Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele introduced for PSG, but it was Desire Doue who restored their lead in the 61st minute. Initially flagged offside, Doue’s goal was awarded after a VAR review determined Villa’s Matty Cash had played him onside.
Villa pushed for an equaliser, with George Hemmings and Boubacar Kamara threatening, but PSG’s defence and goalkeeper Matvey Safonov held firm. Substitute Fabian Ruiz helped PSG steady the midfield, while Tammy Abraham narrowly missed connecting with a late cross that could have forced extra time.
Somalian referee Omar Artan, recently in the news after an incident at Miami International Airport, officiated the match without controversy.
With this victory, PSG begin their new season with more silverware and set their sights on a potential third straight Champions League title.
