Failure to shine in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final match against FC Barcelona has put a dent in French star player Kylian Mbappé's reputation. The lack of a single goal from Mbappé weighed on PSG's overall performance, leaving fans and sports pundits feeling let down.
Mbappé's game was defined by 44 touches, no shots on target, a single successful dribble from four attempts, winning only two duels from 10, losing the ball 13 times, committing three fouls and falling offside three times. Such statistics portray a less than stellar performance and do little to alleviate the disappointment felt by many.
This underwhelming display not only impacts PSG's standing in the current tournament – with their chance of advancing further now reduced – but also places Mbappé squarely in the firing line for criticism ahead of the return match.
An additional worry is the potential impact this could have on his standing in the competition for the Ballon d'Or, where he is up against Erling Haaland. This lackluster performance may not bode well for his chances.
Thankfully, the second leg of the quarter-finals at Montjuic Olympic Stadium presents an opportunity for redemption. Here, Mbappé will have a chance to reclaim his respect and drive his team forward in the tournament.