Moroccan international star Achraf Hakimi continues to shine for Paris Saint-Germain, playing a decisive role in his team's qualification for the semifinals of the 2025 UEFA Champions League at the expense of English side Aston Villa. Hakimi opened the scoring early in the 11th minute, followed by a second goal from teammate Nuno Mendes in the 27th. Aston Villa responded with a goal from Youri Tielemans in the 34th minute. The English club maintained pressure in the second half, netting twice in quick succession through John McGinn and Ezri Konsa in the 55th and 57th minutes. Despite PSG's 3-2 loss on the night, their 3-1 victory in the first leg ensured their place in the semifinals with a 5-4 aggregate win. Speaking in the mixed zone after the match, Hakimi was asked which opponent he would prefer in the next round—his former club Real Madrid or Arsenal. He replied: «Arsenal or Real Madrid? Honestly, it doesn't matter. Sorry for the expression, but to win this tournament, you have to beat the best. Both teams deserve to be here, and we'll see who our opponent will be tomorrow».
