PARIS – In a thrilling UEFA Champions League encounter at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) overcame Tottenham Hotspur 5-3, thanks to a stunning hat-trick from midfielder Vitinha. The victory, a part of the 2025/26 league phase, saw the reigning European champions twice come from behind to secure a crucial win.
Tottenham drew first blood in the 35th minute when Richarlison headed in from close range following a neat interchange and cross from Randal Kolo Muani. However, PSG responded swiftly, with Vitinha unleashing a ferocious right-footed strike from outside the box just before halftime to level the score.
The second half began with Kolo Muani, on loan from PSG, putting Tottenham ahead again in the 50th minute. But Vitinha once again proved to be the hero for the Parisians, curling a beautiful left-footed shot into the net just minutes later to equalize.
PSG then took control of the match with goals from Fabián Ruiz and Willian Pacho. Ruiz swept in a shot after a clever back-heel from Joao Neves, while Pacho prodded home following a corner to make it 4-2. Despite Kolo Muani pulling one back for Tottenham in the 73rd minute, Vitinha sealed the victory with a penalty in the 76th minute after Cristian Romero was penalized for a handball. This completed Vitinha's first career hat-trick.
The match wasn't without its drama, as PSG's Lucas Hernández received a red card in stoppage time for elbowing Xavi Simons. However, it was too late for Tottenham to mount a comeback.
Vitinha, who was third in the Ballon d'Or voting, expressed his delight after the match, stating it was the first time he had ever scored two goals in a match. He also praised the team's character for coming from behind twice.
PSG's victory puts them in a strong position in their Champions League group, demonstrating their attacking prowess and resilience. Tottenham, despite the loss, showed commendable fighting spirit but have now conceded 11 goals in their last three matches.
PSG manager Luis Enrique will be pleased with his team's performance, especially coping without star forwards Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué. Tottenham coach Thomas Frank, however, will be concerned about his team's defensive frailties as they look to bounce back in their subsequent fixtures.
