Paris Saint-Germain roared into the last 16 of the Champions League with a thumping 7-0 victory over Brest, securing a 10-0 aggregate triumph. The hosts exhibited their superiority over a fellow French side, scoring 18 times in four matches this season. Bradley Barcola extended their advantage with a neat near-post effort, and his fellow winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia tapped in PSG's second of the evening before the break.
Portugal international Joao Neves also hit the crossbar for the hosts, before his compatriot and midfield partner Vitinha curled a low shot into the right corner from 18 yards just before the hour mark. From there, PSG moved through the gears, with Goncalo Ramos teeing up fellow substitute Desire Doue for their fourth, the impressive Nuno Mendes sliding in Achraf Hakimi's teasing ball for a fifth, Ramos' deft finish bringing a sixth, and teenager Senny Mayulu rounding off the scoring with four minutes left.
The match was a record-breaking performance for PSG, with the team scoring 21 goals in their last five Champions League matches. The victory ensured a miserable night in the French capital for Brest, who only threatened sporadically when Mathias Pereira Lage's placed effort was cleared off the line by PSG captain Marquinhos and Pierre Lees-Melou hit the post with a curling effort. The dominant win marked PSG's most dominant victory in European competition, while Brest's maiden Champions League appearance came to a brutal end as they suffered the heaviest defeat recorded by a French side in Europe's premier club competition.
PSG will now face Liverpool or Barcelona in the last 16, with the draw due to take place on Friday, 21 February at 11:00 GMT, in Nyon, Switzerland. The Qatari-backed team, the Ligue 1 leaders, are bidding to win their first Champions League title. They were crowned French champions for a record-extending 12th time last season, securing their 10th title in the last 12 seasons. The team's unbeaten streak against Brest now stands at 32 competitive meetings, dating back to 1985.
Here are the match scores:
- PSG 7, Brest 0 (second leg)
- PSG 3, Brest 0 (first leg)
- Aggregate score: PSG 10, Brest 0
The UEFA Champions League last 16 draw will be closely watched, with PSG looking to make a deep run in the competition. With their dominant performance, they have sent a strong message to their potential opponents, showcasing their ability to score goals and win matches convincingly.