Crystal Pouncey
Dec 14, 2023 - 05:10

PSG last 16, Dortmund draw: Latest news and updates

Paris Saint-Germain scrapes into Champions League last 16, Newcastle loses to AC Milan. PSG reaches knockout phase for 12th season.

Paris Saint-Germain managed to sneak into the Champions League last 16 after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Borussia Dortmund, while Newcastle lost to AC Milan in the group's other game.

With the threat of a first group-stage exit since the Qatari takeover in 2011 looming, PSG came from behind to secure the point that propelled them through as Group F runners-up. Dortmund claimed the top spot, with Milan finishing third and Newcastle at the bottom, trailing PSG on head-to-head goal difference.

Karim Adeyemi put Dortmund in the lead early in the second half, but PSG's teenager Warren Zaire-Emery equalized, allowing PSG to reach the knockout phase for the 12th consecutive season as they continue their quest for their first Champions League title.

Although Kylian Mbappe had a late goal disallowed for offside, PSG's performance was lackluster, leaving coach Luis Enrique's side with much work to do if they aim to progress further in the competition.

"We are still alive. No team will hope to play us in the next round," said PSG coach Luis Enrique, expressing confidence despite the team's lackluster showing.

Dortmund will avoid facing several of the competition favorites, such as holders Manchester City and Real Madrid, in the last 16, while PSG could potentially face these formidable opponents in the draw on Monday.

"We're far from the finished article. We're going to have to prepare well and prepare better because bigger opponents are on the way," PSG captain Marquinhos commented, acknowledging the challenges ahead.

Dortmund will be making their fifth appearance in the knockouts in six seasons, although they have only reached the quarter-finals once since 2017.

"Of course, you can't play against a team like Paris without the opponent getting chances," said Dortmund boss Edin Terzic, acknowledging the tough competition.