Bilbao, 11 December (HS): Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon delivered an outstanding performance as Athletic Bilbao held Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain to a 0-0 draw on Wednesday, keeping their hopes of securing a play-off spot alive. The 28-year-old made a series of crucial saves in the Basque Country, frustrating the French champions throughout the encounter.
PSG moved up to third in the table with two league-phase matches remaining, including an away fixture against Sporting Lisbon on January 20 and a home clash with Newcastle eight days later.
For Athletic, Alex Berenguer retained his place on the right wing after scoring in last weekend’s win over Atletico Madrid. PSG saw Nuno Mendes return from a thigh injury, while Ousmane Dembele missed out due to illness.
Fabian Ruiz had PSG’s best early chance but failed to keep his half-volley on target. Just before the break, Simon denied Senny Mayulu from close range, the start of a series of saves that defined the second half.
Moments after the restart, Mayulu forced another superb stop from Simon, sprinting into the box before the keeper reacted sharply. Luis Enrique introduced Desire Doue for his first appearance since October 29 in search of a breakthrough, but PSG were repeatedly denied.
PSG came closest when Bradley Barcola’s strike hit the crossbar in the second half. In the closing minutes, Simon again rescued Athletic, stopping Ruiz’s effort, with captain Yuri Berchiche clearing the rebound off the line.
Athletic’s defensive discipline and Simon’s brilliance ensured a valuable point against one of Europe’s strongest sides.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
