Shot-stopping Safonov stands tall as PSG's new No. 1 after Donnarumma's departure
PARIS (AP) — Different goalkeeper, same result. When Paris Saint-Germain eliminated Liverpool from the Champions League for the second straight season on Tuesday, it was thanks to another strong performance from its goalkeeper. Last season Gianluigi Donnarumma starred in a dramatic penalty shootout , and this time Matvei Safonov stood out at rain-soaked Anfield.
The Russian with the slicked-back hair made an outstanding reflex save in the first half, throwing himself low to the left at dazzling speed despite being off balance, and kept out a fizzing curler with Liverpool dominating the second half. Liverpool was trying to get back into the tie having lost the first leg 2-0 . Although PSG went on to win 2-0 at Anfield , the goals came from counterattacks late in the game by Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembélé.
It was Safonov who stopped Liverpool's momentum. Seizing his chance Donnarumma's presence in the knockout stages played a large part in PSG winning the Champions League for the first time last season. The Italian also made key saves in the quarterfinal against Aston Villa and in the semifinal against Arsenal.
Now Safonov has a chance to follow suit after establishing himself as No. 1 following Donnarumma's departure to Manchester City and the unsuccessful arrival of Lucas Chevalier in the offseason. PSG coach Luis Enrique wanted Chevalier to replace Donnarumma — supposedly because of Chevalier's superior passing from the back — but dropped the Frenchman around December following some unconvincing performances .
So the 27-year-old Safonov emerged from being backup goalie for a second straight season, to the club's first choice. He has taken his opportunity, just as he predicted. In December, Safonov saved four straight penalties in a shootout against Flamengo as PSG won the Intercontinental Cup.