Bayern Munich, PSG reach Champions League last 16

Published Nov 1, 2017

Share

PARIS - Layvin Kurzawa scored an unlikely hat-trick as Paris Saint-Germain powered into the last 16 of the Champions League on Tuesday with a 5-0 rout of Anderlecht, while Bayern Munich joined them in the knockout stage.

Marco Verratti curled in a terrific opening goal - his first in Europe since September 2014 - on the half-hour at the Parc des Princes, with Brazilian superstar Neymar firing in a second before the break.

The world's most expensive player was involved in PSG's third goal as well, as his free-kick was tipped onto the post with France international Kurzawa forcing in the rebound.

The left-back then headed in another from a Dani Alves cross and completed an improbable treble with an angled drive as PSG increased their goals haul to 17 - with none conceded - in four Group B matches.

"The hat-trick is thanks to my teammates. I am delighted and the goals will give me confidence," Kurzawa told beIN Sports.

The French giants top their section with a maximum 12 points, with Bundesliga leaders Bayern progressing alongside them following a 2-1 victory away to Celtic.

Kingsley Coman pounced on hesitant Celtic defending to latch onto a long clearance upfield from goalkeeper Sven Ulreich and round Craig Gordon to slot into an empty net on 22 minutes.

Callum McGregor slotted in a second-half equaliser, but Javi Martinez's brave towering header -- which left the Spaniard bloodied -- clinched qualification for the Germans in Glasgow.

"I knew that today would be a very difficult, intensive game. We've had a busy schedule recently," said Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes.

"It's important that we have qualified, but it's going to be difficult to finish top of the group because of our head-to-head record."

The Scottish champions remain favourites to clinch third spot and a Europa League place ahead of Anderlecht, who they host on matchday six, following their win in Belgium earlier in the campaign.

"The disappointment in the dressing room really shows how well we played," said Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers. 

"I was very proud of the team and the level of composure and quality that we played with and we caused them lots of problems."

AFP

Like us on Facebook

Follow us on Twitter

Related Topics: