Edinson Cavani, Angel di Maria and their Paris Saint-Germain teammates were in the mood for love, and goals, Tuesday.
Cavani, di Maria and Co. starred in PSG’s shocking 4-0 win over Barcelona in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League round of 16 series. The result positions PSG to advance to the quarterfinals, but the French side still must finish the job when it visits Barcelona on March 8 in the second leg.
Cavani and di Maria both celebrated their birthdays Tuesday in a manner that will endear them to PSG fans for years to game. If only di Maria and Cavani could turn 29 and 30, respectively, every game day.
Di Maria kicked off PSG’s Valentine’s Day party in the 18th minute with this stunning free kick.
Julian Draxler marked his Champions League debut for PSG by doubling its lead with a fine low shot in the 40th minute.
Barcelona needed to improve on its first-half showing, but di Maria dashed those hopes in the 55th minute when he struck again.
Di Maria’s fellow birthday boy, Cavani, then made it a rout with this 72nd-minute goal.
Barcelona has reached the quarterfinals for a record nine consecutive years during what is the most glorious era in its history.
PSG’s historic Valentine’s Day drubbing might have just ended that streak.
Thumbnail photo via YouTube/FOX Soccer
