A breathtaking night of European football saw fortunes fluctuate dramatically, with a controversial late penalty decision proving the defining moment in the Parc des Princes.
Paris Saint-Germain's hopes of progression were hanging by a thread until a stoppage-time penalty, converted coolly by Kylian Mbappé, snatched a 1-1 draw from the jaws of defeat against a resilient Newcastle United. The Magpies had taken a shock first-half lead through Alexander Isak and defended heroically, only to be denied a historic victory by a contentious handball call against Tino Livramento.
Group of Death Lives Up to Its Name
The result leaves Group F tantalisingly poised heading into the final matchday. Borussia Dortmund top the group after their 3-1 win over AC Milan, with PSG second. Newcastle must now beat Milan and hope Dortmund avoid defeat against PSG to have any chance of climbing from bottom to a knockout spot.
Elsewhere in Europe: Liverpool and Inter March On
In other action, Liverpool secured their place in the last 16 with a commanding 4-0 victory over LASK Linz. A rotated Reds side, featuring the likes of Cody Gakpo and Luis Díaz, had no trouble dispatching the Austrian opponents at Anfield.
Similarly, Serie A giants Inter Milan booked their ticket to the knockout phase with a professional 3-1 win away at Benfica. The Italian side demonstrated their experience and quality to navigate a tricky fixture in Lisbon.
There was also joy for Spanish side Atlético Madrid, who defeated Feyenoord 3-1 to seal their progression from Group E.
Ajax's Torrid Campaign Continues
At the other end of the spectrum, Dutch powerhouse Ajax's miserable campaign hit a new low. A 3-1 home defeat to RC Lens means the four-time European champions finish bottom of their group and will not even have the consolation of a Europa League spot. For a club of their stature, it marks a profound disappointment.
All eyes now turn to the final round of group matches, where the destiny of the so-called 'Group of Death' will finally be decided.
