Paris Saint-Germain mounted a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against AS Monaco in the Champions League playoff first leg, overturning a 2-0 deficit. Substitute Désiré Doué proved the match-winner after replacing injured Ousmane Dembélé, showcasing the squad's depth despite persistent questions about the defending champions' form this season.

Elsewhere in Europe's elite competition, Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt stunned Inter Milan in the Arctic Circle, while Real Madrid secured a narrow win at Benfica despite allegations of racial abuse targeting Vinícius Jr. The Spanish giants carry a slim advantage into the second leg under interim coach Álvaro Arbeloa.

PSG's performance raises concerns about potential fatigue following last season's Champions League triumph and deep run to the Club World Cup final. The defending champions look more like a collection of talented individuals than the well-oiled machine of 2024, facing a challenging round of 16 tie against either Chelsea or Barcelona.